Roman Empire – AE Follis of Theodosius I (AD 379–395)
Minted in Heraclea, circa AD 373–383
Reference: RIC IX 11
Diameter: 23.5 mm
Weight: 5.70 g
Condition: Very Fine (VF)
⸻
⚔️ Obverse
Inscription: D N THEODOSIVS P F AVG
Depiction: Bust of Emperor Theodosius I, facing right, adorned with a pearl diadem, helmet, and cuirass. He is depicted in full military regalia, holding a spear forward in his right hand and a shield in his left. This powerful imagery reflects the emperor’s role as a defender of both Rome and the Christian faith.
⸻
Reverse
Inscription: GLORIA ROMANORVM
Design: Theodosius stands facing forward on a galley moving left, wearing a helmet, raising his right hand in a gesture of authority or address. Draped with a cloak, he holds it over his left arm. At the stern of the ship stands Victory, holding a rudder, symbolizing divine guidance and protection over the empire.
Mintmark: SMHA – identifying the coin as struck in Heraclea.
⸻
👑 Historical Context
Theodosius I, known as Theodosius the Great, was one of the most pivotal emperors of late antiquity. He was the last ruler to govern both the Eastern and Western Roman Empires. His reign was marked by decisive military victories, religious reforms, and the declaration of Christianity as the state religion of the Roman Empire through the Edict of Thessalonica in 380 AD.
The GLORIA ROMANORVM reverse design, showing the emperor on a galley, evokes themes of military expeditions and imperial providence. This image was commonly used to emphasize the emperor’s vigilance and success in securing Rome’s borders.
⸻
🏺 Collector’s Appeal
This coin is a beautiful testament to the end of Rome’s unified rule. Its sharp details, strong imperial iconography, and symbolism of victory and authority make it a prized piece for any collector of Roman numismatics. Struck in Heraclea, an important mint in the Eastern Empire, this coin bridges the military and spiritual identity of late Roman rulers.