Description
Step into the final years of Rome’s tetrarchic era with this genuine majestic ancient Roman coin issued under Emperor Maximinus II Daia, who ruled from 308 to 313 AD. This bronze follis offers a remarkable glimpse into the turbulent politics and rich symbolism of the late Roman Empire.
Obverse (Front):
Features a detailed bust of Emperor Maximinus II facing right, wearing a laurel wreath. The inscription reads:
IMP C GAL VAL MAXIMINVS P F AVG
(Imperator Caesar Gaius Valerius Maximinus Pius Felix Augustus)
Reverse (Back):
Depicts Genius, the divine personification of the Roman people, standing left, holding a cornucopia and a patera (libation dish) over an altar. The legend reads:
GENIO POP ROM (To the Genius of the Roman People)
Mintmark at the bottom: SMTS (Struck at the Thessalonica mint)
Details:
Date: 308–313 AD
Material: Bronze
Diameter: 23 mm
Weight: 3.7 grams
Condition: Well-preserved with visible details and clear imperial portraiture, natural patina from centuries underground.
Historical Context:
Maximinus II was a staunch pagan ruler during the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire. His reign saw civil unrest, religious persecution, and the struggle for dominance among the last tetrarchs. Coins from his time reflect both the divine authority of the emperor and the enduring strength of Roman tradition.
