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Constantine the Great, Early 307 - 22 May 337 A.D.
A signum was the standard, the military emblem, for each cohort or century in a legion. The signum had a number of phalarae (disks or medallions) along with a number of other elements mounted on a pole. The pole could be topped with a leaf-shaped spear head or a manus (open human hand) image denoting the oath of loyalty taken by the soldiers. It sometimes included a representation of a wreath, probably denoting an honour or award. The signum was carried by the units' signifer. The task of carrying the signum in battle was dangerous, as the soldier had to stand in the first rank and could carry only a small buckler. It was that banner that the men from each individual century would rally around. A soldier could also gain the position of discentes signiferorum, or standard bearer in training. If the signifer was lost in battle, the whole unit was dishonored.RL85733. Billon follis, RIC VI Ostia 98 (S), SRCV IV 16129, Cohen VII 559, Hunter V 230, gVF, traces of silvering, light marks, 2nd officina, Ostia (port of Rome) mint, weight 4.043g, maximum diameter 21.6mm, die axis 0o, c. 312 - 313 A.D.; obverse IMP C CONSTANTINVS P F AVG, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI, three standards, vexillum on left topped with a hand, aquila in center with ensign and topped with an with eagle left, signum on right topped with a wreath, MOSTS in exergue; Numismatik Lanz München, auction 162 (6 Jun 2016), lot 388 (unsold with an estimate of €250); rare; SOLD
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