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Roman Empire


Ruler: Constantius Gallus
Reigned: Caesar 351 - 354 A.D.
Denomination: Bronze reduced Maiorina (Silvered)
Obverse: Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right. "DN. FL. CONSTANTIVS NOB. CAES."
Reverse: Soldier advancing left, spearing fallen horseman. "FEL. TEMP. REPARATIO"
Mint marks:
S
?RS
Reference: RIC 272-279
Weight: 2.7 gms
Nominal Weight: 2.5 gms
Diameter: 17.5 mm
Comment: "This coin is one of a hoard found in Syria, on the border with Lebanon (c. 1974). The hoard comprised of bronzes from the time of Constantine I to Honorius, a phenomenon unremarkable in itself. However two peculiarities are evident - firstly all had been silvered some time after leaving the mint, irrespective of wear: and secondly, coins up to Constantius II were in reasonably nice condition, whereas those of Arcadius and Honorius showed considerable wear. It is possible to hazard the following conclusions - Firstly that the hoard was the work of a `racketer' working in the early fifth century who hoped to fool unsuspecting persons with bronze coins made to look like silver. Secondly that he had laid his hands on a hoard of earlier coins and had used these as well as the more recent ones, hence the finer condition of the earlier issues. Obviously these conclusions are tentative, but must be considered in the light of the few facts available."

CONSTANTIUS GALLUS (Flavius Claudius Constantius, originally named Gallus)

  • Flavius Claudius Gallus, was a cousin of Constantius II, and was given the rank of Caesar in March 351, when his name was changed to Constantius.
  • He was made governor of the eastern provinces, based at Antioch, but his rule was so tyrannical that his subjects complained to the emperor.
  • Constantius wrote to him requesting his presence in Milan, and had him arrested on his journey.
  • At Pola, in Istria, he was tried, convicted and executed (winter 354 AD).

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