LICINIUS II (Caesar, AD 317–324)
Bronze Follis | Heraclea Mint | Struck AD 317
RIC VII 19 | Very Fine Condition
This authentic Roman bronze follis was struck under the reign of Licinius II, son of Emperor Licinius I and Caesar of the Eastern Roman Empire during a politically turbulent era. Issued in AD 317 at the Heraclea mint, this coin is a compelling piece of late Roman history, embodying both imperial ambition and artistic craftsmanship.
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🔍 Coin Details:
•Obverse: D N VAL LICIN LICINIVS NOB C
Laureate and draped bust of Licinius II facing left, holding a mappa, globe, and scepter — symbolizing his role as Caesar and his divine favor.
•Reverse: PROVIDENTIAE CAESS
A detailed camp gate with three turrets, representing security and preparedness. Below, the mintmark MHTΔ identifies Heraclea as the place of issue.
•Metal: Æ Bronze
•Diameter: 19 mm
•Weight: 3.25 g
•Reference: RIC VII Heraclea 19
•Grade: Good Very Fine (Clear details, lightly worn, well-centered)
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🧭 Historical Significance:
Licinius II was elevated to the rank of Caesar in AD 317 by his father, during a time when the empire was divided between Licinius I and Constantine the Great. His coins are historically important, representing a short-lived reign that ended when Constantine defeated Licinius in AD 324 and had the young Caesar executed.
The camp gate reverse is a common motif of the time, reflecting the strategic military fortifications critical to the empire’s stability.
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📦 Included With Your Purchase:
•✅ The original Roman bronze follis of Licinius II (AD 317)
•✅ Certificate of Authenticity and Provenance
•✅ Protective archival-safe holder or flip
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This coin is ideal for collectors of Roman imperial coinage, those interested in the Tetrarchy and Constantinian dynasty, or anyone seeking an aesthetic and historically rich artifact from the late Roman Empire.