Licinius II | Roman Bronze Follis Pendant (AD 317)
Authentic Late Roman Imperial Coin – Heraclea Mint
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Coin Details
•Emperor: Licinius II (Caesar, AD 317–324)
•Mint: Heraclea
•Denomination: Follis
•Material: Bronze (Æ)
•Weight: 3.25 g
•Diameter: 19 mm
•Condition: Good Very Fine
•Reference: RIC VII Heraclea 19
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Obverse
Laureate and draped bust of Licinius II facing left, holding a mappa, globe, and scepter.
The inscription D N VAL LICIN LICINIVS NOB C identifies him as Nobilissimus Caesar, emphasizing his imperial status and dynastic legitimacy as son of Emperor Licinius I. The attributes symbolize authority, divine favor, and the ceremonial role of the young Caesar.
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Reverse
Legend PROVIDENTIAE CAESS, surrounding a fortified camp gate with three turrets—a powerful symbol of military preparedness, security, and imperial foresight.
Below, the mintmark MHTΔ clearly identifies Heraclea as the place of issue.
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Historical Significance
Licinius II was elevated to the rank of Caesar in AD 317, during a period of fragile power-sharing between his father, Licinius I, and Constantine the Great. His coinage represents a brief and dramatic chapter in Roman history, ending in AD 324 when Constantine defeated Licinius and ordered the execution of the young Caesar.
The camp gate motif reflects the militarized reality of the late Roman Empire, where fortifications and frontier defense were essential to imperial survival.
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Mounting & Presentation
This authentic Roman bronze follis is set as a pendant in a custom-made copper bezel, plated with protective metal, designed to preserve the ancient coin while enhancing its durability and visual presence.
The mounting respects the integrity of the artifact, transforming it into a wearable historical object without compromising its authenticity.
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Included with Your Purchase
✔️ Authentic Roman bronze follis of Licinius II (struck AD 317)
✔️ Copper bezel, metal-plated
✔️ Certificate of Authenticity & Provenance
✔️ Genuine leather cord necklace (random color)
✔️ Handcrafted envelope made from traditional Amalfi paper, produced using true cotton fibers following medieval techniques
✔️ Certificate envelope sealed with wax, bearing the official Numisnation logo
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Why This Piece Matters
•Coin of a short-lived Caesar during a pivotal moment in Roman history
•Represents the political tension between Licinius and Constantine
•Strong military symbolism typical of late Roman imperial propaganda
•A rare and evocative artifact from the Constantinian era
This pendant embodies the ambition, fragility, and power struggles of the late Roman Empire—an authentic and meaningful piece for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.