Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 324-325 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Solidus (1) |
| Currency | Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.41 g |
| Diameter | 19.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC VII#74, OCRE#ric.7.nic.74 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Constantine II, laureate, draped, cuirassed, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C (Translation: Constantius the noble junior caesar) |
| Reverse description | Constantine II, draped, cuirassed, standing left, head right, holding standard with eagle holding wreath in right hand and sceptre on left arm. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
PRINCIPI - I-V-VENTVTIS SMNM (Translation: In honor of the Prince of Youth.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
SMN Nicomedia, Bithynia, modern-day İzmit, Turkey |
| Mintage |
ND (324-325) SMNM - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1004913320 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Solidus, struck in Nicomedia between 324 and 325 AD, dates to a pivotal era under Constantinus I, Constantine the Great. Issued immediately after his decisive victory over Licinius, it marks the reunification of the Roman Empire under sole rule. The PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS (Prince of Youth) reverse likely refers to his sons, Crispus or Constantine II, underscoring Constantine's efforts to secure dynastic succession and project imperial stability. Nicomedia, a significant eastern capital, disseminated this crucial imperial message.
Artistry: The design exemplifies the late Roman imperial style, moving towards a more frontal, monumental, and hieratic representation, emphasizing imperial majesty over classical naturalism. While engravers remain anonymous, the Nicomedian mint adhered to prevailing court aesthetics. The obverse features a laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Constantine, projecting authority. The reverse, with the PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS legend, commonly depicts a standing imperial prince, often holding a spear and globe, symbolizing his military role and future dominion.
Technical/Grading: Struck in gold, this Solidus adheres to the standard imperial weight of 4.41 grams and 19.5 millimeters. For grading, key high-points on the obverse include Constantine’s laurel wreath, hair, and drapery folds. On the reverse, attention is paid to the prince’s facial features, attributes like the spear or globe, and drapery. Solidus coins from this era generally exhibit a high quality of strike, with good centering and a well-prepared flan, though minor die wear or striking anomalies can occur.