The Tale of Constantine I and the VRBS  Roma Coin
 
Step back into the mid-4th century AD, a time of significant political and religious transformations within the Roman Empire. The streets of Antioch, one of the major cities of the Eastern Roman Empire, are bustling with activity. Among the many coins circulating in the empire is the AE2/AE3 bronze coin—the coin of Emperor Constantine I, symbolizing his efforts to celebrate the legacy of Rome and its founding myth.
 
Meet Constantine I:
 
Imagine Constantine I, also known as Constantine the Great, a Roman Emperor who ruled from 306 to 337 AD. His reign was marked by monumental changes, including the establishment of Constantinople and the endorsement of Christianity. His coin, minted in Antioch, carries significant historical and cultural weight, celebrating the eternal city of Rome.
 
Your Coin's Journey:
 
Hold your coin in your hand—15.32 millimeters of solid bronze, weighing 1.65 grams, yet resonating with the legacy of an empire. On the obverse, the legend "VRBS – ROMA" frames the helmeted bust of Roma, the personification of the city, emphasizing the enduring power and majesty of Rome.
Flip the coin to reveal its reverse, where the iconic image of the she-wolf (Lupa) stands left, suckling the twins Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome. Above them, two stars shine brightly, symbolizing the divine favor and the eternal nature of the city.
 
The Grandeur of Antioch:
 
Picture your coin’s journey through the bustling marketplaces of Antioch. It pays for various goods—fresh bread, wine, or perhaps a finely crafted garment. 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 Transformation:
 
Constantine I’s significant political, religious, and cultural transformations marked his reign. He was the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity and played a crucial role in the spread of the religion throughout the empire. His establishment of Constantinople as a new capital marked a significant shift in the empire’s power structure.
 
The AE2/AE3 coin of Constantine I minted in Antioch 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 Constantine I’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 late Roman Empire.