My postal carrier just brought my last coin of 2010: Constantine II with reverse Claritas Reipublicae and Sol. Let me take this opportunity to wish you all 'Claritas' when it comes to your coins. While clarity and brightness may have had other meanings in 317 AD when this coin was issued, it can mean 'easy to understand' or 'clear' which is something we all like in our ancient coins. This one from Siscia is pretty clear and, for these, well struck with just a bit of flatness on the head of Sol rather than a large flat spot in the torso often seen on these. It is fully cleaned but not butchered in the process (a real plus these days). The portrait is smaller than average as appropriate for this first issue for the very young Caesar. The age of Constantine II when proclaimed Caesar in 317 is much in debate with some claiming he was a newborn and illegitimate child since his brother Constantius II was born later that year. That leaves the date open to 316 in some sources and 314 in others. In any event, this portrait is a bit old looking for someone his age. May the New Year bring you coins with clear legends (if not certain dates for every issue).
