Roman Empire Constantius II as Caesar Copper Centenionalis or Nummus Antioch mint

Roman Empire, Constantius II (as Caesar), c. 330-333 CE, Denomination: Centenionalis or Nummus, Metal: Copper, Weight: 2.16 grams, Diameter: 18 mm, Antioch mint, References: RIC 88, Uncleaned Grade, Very Scarce.

Obverse: FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C – Laureate and cuirassed bust of Constantius II as Caesar, right.

Reverse: GLORIA EXERCITVS / SMANZ – Two soldiers facing each other, holding spears and shields, two standards between them.

Constantius II was the second son of Constantine the Great and was appointed Caesar in 324 CE at a very young age. During the period c.330–333 CE, when this centenionalis (nummus) was struck, he ruled the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire under his father’s authority. The GLORIA EXERCITVS coinage belongs to Constantine’s military propaganda program, emphasizing unity, discipline, and loyalty of the Roman army at a time when the Empire faced both external threats and internal instability. The two soldiers and standards symbolize the strength and continuity of Roman legions guarding the frontiers. Coins from the Antioch mint were widely circulated in the eastern provinces and are important for understanding administrative control and military presence in the region. Such issues reflect the transitional phase of Late Roman bronze coinage before further monetary reforms.