Description
1279-1307 England Penny Edward I Hammered Coin
The Constantine II Roman coin from AD 337-340 was minted during the early part of the reign of Constantine II, who was one of the sons of Constantine the Great. Constantine II ruled as an emperor in the western part of the Roman Empire after his father’s death in AD 337, alongside his brothers Constantius II and Constans.
Key Features of the Constantine II Coin (AD 337-340):
- Obverse (Front):
- The coin typically features a portrait of Constantine II, often shown as a laureate (wearing a laurel wreath) and facing right or left. The legend around the portrait typically reads “FL CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C” (Flavius Constantine Iunior Nobilissimus Caesar), indicating that he was a noble Caesar at the time.
- Reverse (Back):
- The reverse design usually depicts an appropriate imperial symbol such as a figure of Victory, Soldiers and standards, or Glory holding a wreath or a spear.
- One common reverse design is “VIRTVS EXERCIT”, showing a soldier standing with a spear and shield. Sometimes, the reverse features Moneta (goddess of money) or a similar figure, with coins, the symbol of Roman prosperity.
- Material:
- Coins from this period were primarily made from bronze, though some may also contain small amounts of silver. They often have a high copper content, which is why many have developed a green patina over the centuries.
- Minting Process:
- These coins were struck using the traditional Roman minting process. The dies were used to stamp the designs onto a metal blank, resulting in coins with varied quality and some inconsistencies.
Historical Context:
The period of Constantine II’s reign (337–340 AD) was a time of political instability in the Roman Empire following the death of Constantine the Great. Constantine II, along with his brothers, was part of a Tetrarchy-style system, which involved sharing power with other family members. However, Constantine II’s reign was relatively short, as he was killed in a conflict with his brother Constans in AD 340, likely over territorial disputes.
Coin Types:
- The AE3 (smaller bronze) is a common denomination used during Constantine II’s reign.
- The AE4 is another denomination, even smaller in size, and was also in circulation during this period.
These coins circulated widely in the Western Roman Empire and are often found in good condition, though wear and corrosion over the centuries are common due to the copper-based alloy.
