Product Details

Notes: Barbarous imitations of coins from the late Roman period, including those from Constantine the Great & Sons reigns, were unofficial copies often produced to meet demands for currency when official mints couldn't keep up. This imitation is specifically mimicking official coinage from the Aquilea mint from an official issue with a RIC rarity of R1. Ancient Imitations such as this one provide insight into the economic pressures and coin supply issues of the time. Crispus, son of Constantine the Great, was a Caesar since age 12 and later led victorious military operations against the Franks and the Alamanni in 318, 320 and 323. He secured the continued Roman presence in the areas of Gaul and Germania. The soldiers loved him thanks to his strategic abilities and the victories to which he had led the Roman legions. The death of Crispus was tragic. His own father ordered him to be put to death by poison. Some sources say that Crispus was executed because of suspicions that he was having an affair with his stepmother, Fausta (who was also executed by Constantine I). Coin type: Roman Imperial Ruler: Crispus (Caesar) Coin: Bronze Barbarous AE3 Obverse: CRISPVS - NOB CAES - Laureate Head of Crispus Facing Right (in Barbarous Style) Reverse :DOMINOR NOSTRORVM (in Blundered Style) - VOT X Inscribed Within Laurel Wreath, 2 Palm Leaves on Either Side of X Exergue: AQT Mint: Aquilea (322 AD) Wt./Size/Axis: 2.94g / 21mm / 6H Rarity: Extremely Rare References: RIC VII Aquileia 106 (barbarous imitation) ACXI12