Constantine I AE2, Mars (RIC VII Thessalonica 22)

Reverse

Classical Numismatic Group, CC-BY-SA-2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Catalog Reference

RIC VII Thessalonica 22

Ruler

Constantine I

Denomination

AE2

Date

317 AD-318 AD

Mint

Thessalonica

Metal

Bronze

Portrait Type

laureate

Obverse

LICINIVS IVN NOB CAESAR

Head of Licinius II, laureate, right

Reverse

VIRTVS MI-LITVM DD NN

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 22 is an ae2 of Constantine I (317 AD-318 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 AE2

AE2 is a modern size classification for late Roman bronze coins measuring 21–25mm in diameter. This class includes the reduced folles and nummi of the Constantinian and Valentinianic periods. The classification is widely used in RIC and dealer catalogs when the ancient denomination name is debated.

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 AE2 coins

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RIC VII Thessalonica 22?: RIC VII Thessalonica 22 is a Bronze AE2 of Constantine I (317 AD-318 AD) struck at the Thessalonica mint cataloged under RIC no. RIC VII Thessalonica 22.
How do you identify RIC VII Thessalonica 22?: The obverse depicts Head of Licinius II, laureate, right with the inscription LICINIVS IVN NOB CAESAR. 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 MI-LITVM DD NN. Portrait type: laureate.