These are AE4s minted under the authority of Constantine II after his father's death in 337. The type I'm most drawn to is the emperor driving a quadriga to heaven - a problematic device for small coins because of its complexity. (I believe the only other type is of Constantine I standing, togate and veiled.) The standing types are easy to come by and occur in fairly high grades. I wouldn't say the quadrigas are rare, but definitely scarce. It's one of those coins that you need several examples of to properly illustrate the type. This is what they look like... At first glance it may appear that these coins are the result of shoddy engraving, but they are small - very small. The one at the top is 15mm, and the lower 13mm. So think small... From a distance of even a foot, it becomes rather impressive that the engravers got as much detail in as they did, in such a tiny space. Anyway, I just thought I'd throw that out there - seems kind of slow today. If you've got any wisdom to offer on this series, do tell! Or post a small coin with copious detail, or if you're stevex, post whatever you darn well please. It's all good.
Here is an example of mine from Constantinople. In this example the hand of God is clearly visible: 1.39g, 16mm
I always have loved the "hand of God" coins. I actually look for them whenever I am pawing through groups of LRB and buy any nice ones I find. IDK how many I own, maybe 10. I don't think I have any AE4's of them though. I think mine are all AE3's, (though that line is pretty arbitrary).
Are they colloquially known as "hand of God" coins? I didn't even realize that was part of the device. Now I'll have to find one with the hand!
The hand is the most important part of the reverse. Its the first physical representation of God on a coin, (at least the Christian god). Very popular, (especially with the hand showing), to many Christians, especially if you explain the coin to them.
It seems like these thread's drop off very fast, had to go looking for it... Constantine the Great... Commemorative issue struck after his death.. AD..307- 337..AD.. Ob.Veiled head right.. Rev.Constantine in quadriga going to Heaven.. Hand of God Above...
