Constantius II, as Caesar, AE3

Constantius II (as Caesar), AE3, bronze, under Constantine I, AD 324–337; struck at Thessalonica, c. AD 326–328; 3.24 g; 19 mm. Obverse: FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C; laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Reverse: PROVIDENTIAE CAESS; campgate with two turrets, star above; mintmark of Thessalonica in exergue. Struck on the AE3 module at Thessalonica during the PROVIDENTIAE series for the Caesars. Reference: RIC VII Thessalonica 158.

Constantius II was created Caesar in AD 324 and this early issue promotes the Providentia (foresight) of the junior emperors in safeguarding the empire’s defenses. The campgate type signaled investment in fortifications and military logistics along vulnerable frontiers, while Thessalonica—situated on the Via Egnatia in the Balkans—served as a major Constantinian mint supporting operations during the consolidation of imperial control in the 320s.