Ancient coins, Roman Republic, Constantine I (AD 307-337), solidus, Heraclea, c. AD 326-330, diademed head of Constantine gazing upwards to r., diadem decorated with parallel lines, rev. CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG, pair of interlaced laurel wreaths, each with a large central jewel, eight-rayed star above, in ex. SMH• in exergue, wt. 4.28gms. (RIC -; Biaggi 1961 (this coin); Calico -). choice extremely fine, apparently unique
*ex Leo Biaggi de Blasys Collection, 1961
Constantine's reign lasted until 336 AD. Many of his coins feature radically new artwork which had not been seen on Roman coinage before. He introduced a new gold coin which would become the staple of the Roman world for centuries – the gold solidus.
This spectacular anepigraphic depiction of Constantine the Great was struck later in the emperor's reign, around AD 326–330. Constantine is depicted gazing upwards, possibly towards God. By this point Constantine had converted and Christianity was thriving in the Roman Empire. The two wreaths which appear on this coin's reverse refer to two decades of rule successfully completed – the Emperor's vicennalia; something only a handful of emperors had achieved before him.
This extremely fine piece is not recorded in any of the major catalogues, being apparently unique. It bears the excellent pedigree of an old, famous collection. A truly magnificent piece of Late Roman gold
(4250-4750 GBP)