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Roman Empire

Ruler: Vetranio
Reigned: 350 AD
Denomination: Billon Maiorina
Mint: Siscia
Date of Issue: 350 AD
Obverse: Pear-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right; "A" behind, star before . "D.N. VETRANIO P.F. AVG."
Reverse: Emperor standing facing, head left, holding labarum with a Christogram on the banner, being crowned by Victory; "A" in left field. "HOC SIG-NO VICTOR ERIS".
Mint marks:
 
•ESIS•
Reference: RIC VIII 287; LRBC 1174: RCVM 18905
Weight: 5.5 gms
Nominal Weight: 4.65 - 5.1 gms
Diameter: 22.6 mm
Comment: The reverse legend "HOC SIGNO VICTORERIS" ('by this sign you shall conquer') refers to the vision of Constantine the Great before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge and provides evidence of Vetranio's loyalty to Constantius.

VETRANIO

  • Early in 350 AD, Magnetius revolted against Constans, who was murdered, leaving Magnetius master of Gaul, Britain, Spain, Africa, and Italy.
  • The soldiers of the Illyrian army were undecided as to whether they should support Magnentius, or express their allegiance to Constantius II. They were persuaded by Constantia, the sister of Constantius to proclaim their commander, Vetranio, emperor.
  • Vetranio immediately proclaimed his loyalty to Constantius, and kept Magnentius at bay whilst Constantius was settling the affairs of the East.
  • After Vetranio had re-claimed Illyricum, Constantius arrived to take command, and Vetranio formally abdicated in his presence.
  • Vetranio was granted an estate at Prusa in Bithynia where he spent the last six years of his life in comfort, one of the few emperors not to die a violent death.

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R24105