Galerius, 305-311, Follis

Galerius, Follis, AE, reign 305-311, minted in Alexandria. The coin weighs 6.71 g and typically measures around 25 mm in diameter. The obverse features the inscription "IMP C GAL VAL MAXIMIANVS P F AVG," depicting a laureate head of Galerius facing right. The reverse bears the inscription "GENIO IMPERATORIS," illustrating Genius standing left, holding a patera and cornucopia. This coin presents a well-centered strike with relatively consistent surface preservation. References include RIC VI Alexandria 105a. This follis was minted during the reign of Galerius, a key figure in the Tetrarchy, a system of rule established by Emperor Diocletian to bring order to the Roman Empire through division of power among four rulers. Galerius, both an accomplished military leader and eventual senior Augustus, played a crucial role in the stabilization and defense of Rome's eastern provinces. Coins like this one served as tangible symbols of the emperor's authority and divine favor, reinforcing his legitimacy across the empire.