Description

Ancient Roman Coin – Constantine I – Blundered Obverse Legend – Soldiers & Spears Reverse – 335–336 AD – 17mm, 1.5g

BLUNDERED OBVERSE LEGEND, CONSTANTINE I, SOLDIERS-SPEARS, 335–336 AD

An intriguing late Roman bronze coin struck during the reign of Emperor Constantine I “The Great” (AD 306–337), featuring a blundered obverse legend, making it a fascinating addition for collectors of ancient Roman coins and minting varieties.

The obverse bears a laureate portrait of Constantine I with an incorrectly engraved or partially illiterate legend, a phenomenon occasionally encountered on late Roman bronze issues where local die engravers introduced spelling or lettering errors. These blundered legends provide a unique insight into the practical realities of coin production across the vast Roman Empire.

The reverse depicts two Roman soldiers standing facing one another, each holding a spear and resting on a shield, with military standards between them. This famous GLORIA EXERCITVS (“Glory of the Army”) reverse type celebrated the loyalty and strength of the Roman legions during Constantine’s reign and became one of the Empire’s most recognisable coin designs.

Features

• Empire: Roman Empire
• Emperor: Constantine I (Constantine the Great)
• Reign: AD 306–337
• Date: AD 335–336
• Denomination: AE Bronze (Late Roman Bronze)
• Diameter: 17 mm
• Weight: 1.5 grams
• Obverse: Laureate bust of Constantine I with blundered legend
• Reverse: Two soldiers holding spears and shields with military standards between them (GLORIA EXERCITVS type)
• Material: Bronze

Condition

A genuine ancient Roman coin showing circulation consistent with its age of nearly 1,700 years. The portrait, reverse design, and distinctive blundered obverse inscription remain identifiable, giving the coin excellent historical character. Please examine the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Historical Significance

Constantine I transformed the Roman Empire through military victories, sweeping administrative reforms, and his support of Christianity following the Edict of Milan in AD 313. The GLORIA EXERCITVS series, introduced in the 330s, commemorated the strength and discipline of Rome’s army during a period of political transition and military consolidation.

Coins with blundered legends are particularly appealing to collectors, as they reflect the challenges faced by provincial mint engravers and make each example a distinctive piece of Roman numismatic history.

A wonderful collectible for enthusiasts of ancient Roman history, Constantine the Great, military-themed coinage, or unusual minting varieties.