Roman Coin - Bronze Follis of Constantine the Great – Sarmatia Devicta (323-324 AD)

Imagine living in the Roman Empire almost 1,700 years ago.

News reaches the cities along the Danube. Emperor Constantine has once again achieved a victory over the Sarmatians, a powerful nomadic people who regularly threatened the empire's borders. To celebrate this victory, thousands of coins are minted and distributed throughout the empire.

Perhaps this coin once passed through the hands of a Roman soldier, merchant, or tax collector. For centuries, it lay hidden in the earth, waiting for new hands to discover it.

Today, you hold a tangible piece of the Roman Empire, minted during the reign of one of the most famous emperors in world history.

What is it?

This is an original Roman bronze follis (nummus) from the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great, minted around 323–324 AD.

The obverse shows the portrait of Constantine I with the inscription CONSTANTINVS AVG. Although this side is partially obscured by age and corrosion, its historical origin remains clearly recognizable.

The reverse belongs to the famous victory type SARMATIA DEVICTA ("Sarmatia conquered"). It depicts the goddess Victoria advancing triumphantly with a palm branch and trophy. At her feet sits a kneeling and bound Sarmatian warrior, symbolizing the Roman victory.

It is precisely this depiction that makes the piece particularly popular among collectors of Roman history.

Historical context

This coin was minted during a pivotal period in Roman history.

In 323 and 324, Constantine conducted successful campaigns against the Sarmatians, a nomadic people who lived along the Danube. The victory strengthened his position as the empire's most powerful ruler.

Shortly thereafter, the decisive civil war broke out against his final rival, Licinius. Constantine emerged victorious from this conflict, thereby becoming the sole emperor of the Roman Empire.

This was a historic turning point. Under Constantine, Christianity would grow from a persecuted religion into an accepted faith. He also founded Constantinople, the city that would remain the center of the Eastern Roman Empire for more than a thousand years.

This coin was therefore minted just before one of the most important political upheavals in European history.

Features

• Original Roman coin
• Minted under Constantine the Great
• Dated circa 323–324 AD
• Victory type SARMATIA DEVICTA
• Minted in Trier (Treveri)
• Reference: RIC VII 435 / 429
• Approximately 1,700 years old
• Dark historical patina
• Highly decorative reverse with Victoria and a captive

Condition

The reverse is in a fine collectible condition. The depiction of Victoria, the captive, and large parts of the inscription are still clearly visible.

The obverse shows clear signs of age and corrosion, which have made the portrait less distinct. This is common with Roman bronze coins that have remained in the soil for centuries.

The coin has an authentic dark patina that underscores its age and authenticity.

Where does this coin look its best?

This coin makes a beautiful addition to a collection of Roman antiquities, archaeological finds, or historical coins.

It is also a particularly appealing object for enthusiasts of Roman history, Constantine the Great, or the early development of Europe and Christianity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this an original Roman coin?

Yes. This is an authentic Roman bronze follis from the reign of Constantine the Great, minted around 323–324 AD.

What does SARMATIA DEVICTA mean?

This Latin text literally means "Sarmatia conquered". The coin commemorates Constantine's military victory over the Sarmatians along the Danube border.

Why is Constantine the Great so important?

Constantine was the first Roman emperor to legalize Christianity. He also united the empire under a single ruler and founded Constantinople, one of the most influential cities in world history.

Why is the coin so dark?

The dark color is a natural patina that formed over almost 1,700 years due to the oxidation of the bronze. Collectors often value this as a sign of authenticity.

Is this coin rare?

This type appears regularly in Roman numismatics, but remains highly sought after due to its direct link to Constantine the Great and the important historical events associated with it. Specimens with a clear reverse, like this piece, are especially popular among collectors.