Constantine I Solidus — RIC VII Thessalonica 18

Obverse

CNG, PD, via Wikimedia Commons

Catalog Reference

RIC VII Thessalonica 18

Ruler

Constantine I

Denomination

Solidus

Date

317 AD

Mint

Thessalonica

Metal

Gold

Portrait Type

laureate

Obverse

CONSTAN-TINVS P F AVG or CONSTANT-INVS P F AVG

Head of Constantine I, laureate, right

Reverse

VIRTVS EX-ERCITVS GALL

Mars, nude, chlamys flying, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy across left shoulder; on either side, captive

About This Type

This RIC VII Thessalonica 18 is a solidus of Constantine I (317 AD), struck at the Thessalonica mint. The reverse depicts Mars, nude, chlamys flying, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy across left shoulder; on either side, captive.

About the Solidus

The solidus was the gold coin of the late Roman and Byzantine empires, introduced by Constantine I around 309 AD at 4.5 grams. It maintained its weight standard for over seven centuries, making it one of the most stable currencies in history.

About the Thessalonica Mint

Thessalonica (modern Thessaloniki, Greece) operated as an imperial mint from the late third century. It was a key Balkan mint serving the military needs of the Danube and eastern frontiers.

All Constantine I coins Thessalonica mint All Solidus coins

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RIC VII Thessalonica 18?: RIC VII Thessalonica 18 is a Gold Solidus of Constantine I (317 AD) struck at the Thessalonica mint cataloged under RIC no. RIC VII Thessalonica 18.
How do you identify RIC VII Thessalonica 18?: The obverse depicts Head of Constantine I, laureate, right with the inscription CONSTAN-TINVS P F AVG or CONSTANT-INVS P F AVG. The reverse depicts Mars, nude, chlamys flying, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy across left shoulder; on either side, captive with the inscription VIRTVS EX-ERCITVS GALL. Portrait type: laureate.