I recently added this to my collection, I do not have a lot a silver from this era so each one is special. This is as Silver Siliquia of Constantine II (as Augustus AD 337-361). It was minted at Constantinople between AD 353-355. Sear lists it as SR-17939 and in RIC VIII it is #102 I love the simple reverse design and I am fascinated by the history of the period. I recall reading somewhere that Constantine’s three sons were called “the Three Vipers” by one ancient writer, but I think that is unfair… … to vipers!
Constantius II, Roman Empire AR siliqua Obv: D N CONSTAN-TIVS P F AVG, pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right Rev: VOTIS XXX / MVLTIS XXXX, all within wreath Mint: Sirmium Mintmark: SIRM Date: 357-361 AD Ref: RIC VIII 15 Size: 3.31 gr, 22 mm wide
Do you know the weight? During his reign he issued siliquae of two weights. The heavier one is above 3 grams , the lighter one about 2 grams or less.
@kevin McGonigal i have not put it on the scale yet, but the old holder says it is the heavy variety.
Donna, that Gratian looks a bit more billon than silver, or is that just the lighting? i thought that siliquae were very high purity for the majority of their existance.
always wondered why someone would hole a coin and wear it as (presumably) a pendant, but punch the whole off center, and with the obverse upside down.
I don't have a siliqua, nor do I think i'll be able to afford one. Only one I ever saw in my price range was $20 for a heavily clipped Constantius II that went for $20 in a lot. Since the siliqua was a similar size and weight as the former denarius, here is the latest "denarius" equivalent I have.