Nummus - Maximianus small head, IMP C MAXIMIANVS P F AVG, GENIO POPVLI ROMANI, Londinium

Historical Context: This nummus, struck 300-305 AD at the Londinium mint, belongs to the First Tetrarchy under Maximianus, Augustus of the West. It represents a key period of imperial reform following the 3rd-century crisis. The nummus was a cornerstone of Diocletian's monetary reforms, designed to stabilize the Roman economy with a large bronze currency. The Londinium mint's operation highlights the Tetrarchy's successful reassertion of control over Britain and its strategic importance within the unified empire.

Artistry: The coin displays the distinctive Tetrarchic artistic style, moving from classical realism to a more stylized, authoritative portrayal. The obverse features the "small head" portrait of Maximianus, emphasizing imperial power and collective leadership rather than individualistic features, alongside the legend IMP C MAXIMIANVS P F AVG. The reverse, GENIO POPVLI ROMANI, depicts the Genius of the Roman People, a potent propaganda message promoting unity and collective prosperity under Tetrarchic rule.

Technical/Grading: This bronze nummus, weighing 10.35 grams and measuring 28 millimeters, adheres to the standard specifications for the type. Key high-points prone to wear or weak strike include Maximianus's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the Genius's head, cornucopia, and patera on the reverse. Nummi from this era frequently exhibit variable strike quality, often showing off-center strikes, minor flan cracks, or areas of flatness from uneven die pressure. Well-struck examples, however, retain strong detail.