The Tale of Constans and the Victoriae Coin
 
Step back into the mid-4th century AD, a time of political intrigue and military consolidation within the Roman Empire. The streets of Trier, one of the principal cities of the Western Roman Empire, are bustling with activity. Among the many coins circulating in the empire is the AE4 bronze coin—the coin of Emperor Constans, symbolizing his efforts to celebrate victories and uphold the legacy of Rome.
 
Meet Constans:
 
Imagine Constans, a Roman Emperor who ruled from 337 to 350 AD. As the youngest son of Constantine the Great, his reign was marked by efforts to defend the empire against external threats and to resolve internal religious disputes. His coin, minted in Trier, carries significant historical and cultural weight, celebrating military victories and the stability of his rule.
 
The Coin's Journey:
 
Hold the coin in your hand—16.37 millimeters of solid bronze, weighing 1.40 grams, yet resonating with the legacy of an empire. On the obverse, the legend "CONSTANS PF AVG" frames the rosette diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Constans, facing right. This emphasizes his status as a pious and fortunate Augustus.
Flip the coin to reveal its reverse, where the legend "VICTORIAE DD AVGGQ NN" (Victories of our Lords the Emperors) is inscribed. The scene depicted shows two Victories facing each other, each holding wreaths and palm branches, with an ivy leaf in between them. This imagery underscores the emperor’s military prowess and the divine favor attributed to his reign.
 
The Grandeur of Trier:
 
Picture the coin’s journey through the bustling marketplaces of Trier. It pays for various goods—fresh bread, wine, or perhaps a finely crafted piece of jewelry. Each transaction weaves a thread into the rich tapestry of Roman life, connecting the people to their emperor and his efforts to celebrate and uphold the legacy of Rome.
 
A Time of Defense and Religious Turmoil:
 
Constans’s reign was marked by significant military and political challenges. He rose to power during a period of religious strife between Arians and Nicene Christians and faced threats from both internal usurpers and external invasions. His efforts to maintain control and bring stability were constant and fraught with difficulty.
 
Historical Context:
 
Constans:
Constans was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 337 to 350 AD. His reign is noted for his efforts to defend the empire from numerous external and internal threats, as well as for his attempts to navigate the complex religious landscape of the time. Despite his relatively short reign, Constans left a lasting impact on the Roman Empire.
Symbolism and Propaganda:
 
Obverse Imagery:
The bust of Constans with a rosette diadem and draped in regal attire symbolizes his association with the divine and his elevated status. The cuirass signifies his role as a military leader and protector of the empire.
 
Reverse Imagery:
The reverse of the coin features two Victories, symbolizing the divine favor and achievements of Constans in maintaining stability and winning military victories. The ivy leaf between them emphasizes the eternal nature of these victories and the ongoing prosperity of the empire.
 
Social Story and Usage:
 
Society During Constans’s Reign:
Constans’s reign was a time of significant military and political challenges. The Roman Empire faced threats from both internal factions and external invasions. Despite these challenges, the economy and daily life continued, with coins like this one playing a crucial role in facilitating commerce and propaganda.
What the Coin Could Buy:
The AE4 bronze coin, though smaller in denomination compared to earlier Roman coins, still held purchasing power for everyday transactions. Here are some examples of what an AE4 coin might have purchased during Constans’s reign:
Food and Drink:
Bread: A staple food item, a loaf of bread might cost one AE4 coin.
Wine: A jug of common wine could be bought for a few AE4 coins, depending on quality and region.
Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables from local markets, enough for a small family meal, could be purchased for a handful of AE4 coins.
Services:
Meals: A meal at a local tavern or inn could be covered by a few AE4 coins.
Bathhouse Entry: Access to public baths, which were an essential part of Roman social life, typically required a small fee.
Barber Services: Basic grooming services like a haircut or shave.
Household Items:
Pottery: Everyday items such as cups, plates, and storage jars.
Utensils: Cooking utensils or simple tools for household use.
 
 
The AE4 coin of Constans minted in Trier is a valuable artifact from a critical period in Roman history. The coin's design, with its potent symbols and legends, served not only as a medium of exchange but also as a tool of imperial propaganda, reinforcing Constans’s image as a pious, victorious, and protective ruler. Understanding the context and significance of such coins provides valuable insights into the political, economic, and social dynamics of the Roman Empire during the mid-4th century.