Constantine, Follis, bronze, reign 306-337, minted 326-327

Constantine, Follis, bronze, reign 306-337, minted 326-327, weight 3.10 g, diameter 18 mm. Obverse: Laureate bust right; legend CONSTANTINVS AVG. Reverse: Campgate with two turrets and five brick layers, star above; legend PROVIDENTIAE AVGG with mintmark SMANTΓ in exergue. Strike: Hammered on a round flan, die axis about 6 h, moderate centration with full legends. Toning: Dark brown patina with lighter coppery high points. References: RIC VII Antioch 78; Sear Roman Coins 16228; Cohen 466. The campgate type appeared during Constantine’s middle period, reflecting the emperor’s emphasis on military security and the protection of imperial frontiers after his consolidation of power. Struck at Antioch shortly after the refounding of Constantinople, these folles circulated throughout the eastern provinces as part of Constantine’s bronze currency reform that reduced module sizes while maintaining official value. The legend PROVIDENTIAE AVGG invokes the foresight of the imperial college, underscoring Constantine’s presentation of himself as guardian of the empire’s stability. The star above the gate is interpreted as a celestial symbol aligning the emperor’s rule with divine favor, a recurrent theme in Constantinian propaganda.