Maiorina - Decentius VICTORIAE DD NN AVG ET CAE, Arelate

发行方 Western provinces, Usurpations of
年份 351-353
类型 Standard circulation coin
面值 Maiorina
货币 Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
材质 Bronze
重量 4 g
直径 21 mm
厚度
形状 Round (irregular)
制作工艺 Hammered
方向 Variable alignment ↺
雕刻师
流通至
参考资料 RIC VIII#180, OCRE#ric.8.ar.180
正面描述 Bust of Decentius, bareheaded, cuirassed, right; A behind bust.
正面文字 Latin
正面铭文 D N DECENTIVS CAESAR
背面描述 Two Victories, winged, draped, facing each other, holding between them a wreath inscribed VOT/V/MVL/X, ∈ on IS in field between Victories.
背面文字 Latin
背面铭文 VICTORIAE DD NN AVG ET CAE
边缘
铸币厂
铸造量 ND (351-353) PAR - 1st Officina -
ND (351-353) SAR - 2nd Officina -
Numisquare 编号 1123940220
附加信息

Historical Context: This Maiorina coin, issued 351-353 AD, belongs to Decentius, Caesar under his brother Magnentius, during their usurpation of the Western Roman Empire. Struck at Arelate (Arles), a significant mint, it reflects a tumultuous period of civil war against Constantius II. The legend VICTORIAE DD NN AVG ET CAE (Victories of Our Lords the Augustus and Caesar) boldly asserts their contested legitimacy and military prowess, despite their ultimate defeat in 353 AD, which ended their brief, violent reign.

Artistry: The coin exemplifies the Late Roman Imperial stylistic school, moving from classical naturalism towards abstract, hieratic representation. While specific engravers are anonymous, their work reflects propaganda urgency. The obverse typically features a stylized, often frontal, bust of Decentius. The reverse design for RIC VIII#180 depicts two Victories holding a shield inscribed VOT/V/MVLT/X, a powerful visual declaration of the usurpers' claimed military success and anticipated longevity, characteristic of the era's numismatic messaging and the mint's artistic conventions.

Technical/Grading: This bronze Maiorina, weighing 4 grams and measuring 21 millimeters, often exhibits variable strike quality typical of the period's mass production. High-points for grading include the emperor's hair, nose, and the intricate details of the Victories' wings and drapery. Well-struck examples show full, clear legends and crisp devices. However, off-center strikes, planchet irregularities, and die wear are common, impacting preservation. A superior strike is essential for appreciating the full iconographic message and the fine details of this historically significant issue.

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