Reproduction Follis of Constantine I (The Great) - Military Gate

Obverse: Laureate and draped bust of Constantine I (The Great) left, holding mappa in right hand and globe with scepter in left hand. Text around IMP CONSTA-NTINVS AVG.

Reverse: A square military gate guarded by three soldiers. Text around PROVIDEN-TIAE AVGG, MHTB below.

History: Constantine became a Roman Emperor in 306. Between 312 and 324 there was great unrest in the Roman Empire. Constantine conquered Northern Italy and Rome to become Western Augustus in 312. He then set on gain control of the eastern half of the Roman Empire ruled by Licinius. A number of wars took place climaxing in the great civil war of 324 of which Constantine was victorious and became sole emperor of the entire Roman Empire. Constantine died in 337 and was succeeded by his three sons. The reverse image suggested public security during a time of unrest.

Date: Heraclea mint struck around 317 AD

Diameter: 1.9cm