Lot 2193
Constantine I. Æ Follis (3.20 g), AD 307/10-337. Constantinople, AD 327. CONSTANTI-NVS MAX AVG, laureate head of Constantine I right. Reverse: SPES PVBLIC, labarum with three medallions and surmounted by a Christogram spearing serpent; A//CONS. RIC 19. Glossy dark green patina. An extremely rare type with significant appeal. Extremely Fine. Estimated Value $2,000 - UP
The labarum with its three medallions and which is surmounted by a Christogram was Constantine's personal banner, and shows his embracing Christianity. It is the same banner that led him to victory at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312. The significance here is his victory over Licinius I, who is represented by the pierced serpent, a symbol of evil. The legend of the reverse, SPES PVBLIC, proclaims the hope of the people, which is to say that Constantine is proclaiming that his victory over Licinius will usher in a period of peace and prosperity for the citizens of the Roman Empire.
Ex Nomos 19 (17 November 2019), 358 Ex The David Karpeles Collection.
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| Realized $3,840 |
