Constantine, 306-337, AE2

Constantine I, AE2, bronze, reign 306–337, Antioch mint, struck c. AD 313–315, 3.12 g, 22 mm. Obverse with laureate head of Constantine I right; legend IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS P F AVG. Reverse with Jupiter standing left, holding Victory on globe and sceptre; eagle at feet; legend IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG. Well-centred with clear legends and devices; moderate circulation wear. RIC VII Antioch 7.

Issued during Constantine’s consolidation of power in the eastern provinces, this Jupiter type continues the Tetrarchic tradition of portraying Jupiter as protector of the emperors (AVGG), reflecting the persistence of traditional Roman state iconography in the early years of Constantine’s reign prior to the full dominance of Christian symbols on the imperial coinage. The Antioch mint, a major eastern imperial workshop, supplied large quantities of bronze for military pay and market circulation in Syria and adjacent regions during this period.