Licinius II, 317-324, AE3

Licinius II, AE3, AE, Caesar under Licinius I, AD 317-324, Alexandria, AD 317-324, 2.61 g, 18 mm. Obverse with laureate and cuirassed bust right; legend D N VAL LICIN LICINIVS NOB C. Reverse with Jupiter standing left, holding Victory on globe and sceptre; eagle at feet; legend IOVI CONSERVATORI; mintmark in exergue as issued from Alexandria. Struck from official imperial dies on a compact flan with generally centered types and clear legends. RIC VII Alexandria 30.

As Caesar, Licinius II formed part of the dynastic arrangements that underpinned the Tetrarchic and post-Tetrarchic imperial system, with junior emperors elevated to secure succession and reinforce legitimacy during periods of divided rule. The reverse type invoking Jupiter as “Conservator” reflects the continuing use of traditional Roman state religion in imperial propaganda, presenting divine protection for the emperor and the stability of the regime during the early fourth century and the rivalry between the Licinian and Constantinian spheres of power. Alexandria’s mint served the eastern provinces and provides an identifiable regional output within the late Roman bronze coinage system.