Maximian, AE Radiatus, billon, reign 286-305, minted 284-305

Maximian, AE Radiatus, billon, reign 286-305, minted 284-305, weight 3.80 g, diameter 22 mm. Obverse: Laureate, cuirassed bust right; legend IMP C M A MAXIMIANVS P F AVG. Reverse: Maximian standing right, holding short sceptre or scroll, receiving Victory on globe from Jupiter standing left holding sceptre; legend CONCORDIA MILITVM with mintmark KΔ in exergue. Strike: well-centered, even strike on a round flan, moderate circulation wear. Toning: light brown patina with darker recessed areas. References: RIC VI Cyzicus 15b. This radiate bronze was produced at Cyzicus during the monetary reforms initiated under Diocletian and implemented across the Tetrarchic empire. The type, echoing the earlier antoninianus with its radiate crown, circulated alongside the newly introduced nummus to maintain small-change supply. The reverse inscription CONCORDIA MILITVM advertised harmony between the emperor and the army, a critical theme during Maximian’s operations against usurpers and frontier incursions. The scene of Jupiter handing Victory to the emperor reflects the official ideology that divine favor, embodied in Jupiter, guaranteed military success and legitimized Tetrarchic rule amid ongoing administrative and fiscal restructuring.