COIN DATA SHEET: MAXIMINUS II AE FOLLIS (286-310 AD)
 
Historical Context:
 
Maximinus II, also known as Gaius Valerius Galerius Maximinus, was a Roman emperor who ruled the eastern provinces from 310 to 313 AD. A protégé of Galerius, he rose through the ranks of the military before being granted the title of Caesar in 305 AD. He governed the eastern territories, including Egypt and Syria, and later proclaimed himself Augustus in 310 AD after the death of Constantius I.
 
Maximinus II’s reign coincided with one of the most tumultuous periods of the Tetrarchy, a system of rule established by Diocletian to bring stability to the empire. However, constant power struggles and civil wars marked this era, leading to conflicts with rivals such as Licinius and Constantine the Great. Maximinus was a staunch pagan, opposing the rise of Christianity and actively persecuting Christians, which ultimately led to his downfall.
 
In 313 AD, he was defeated by Licinius at the Battle of Tzirallum, forcing him to flee. He died shortly afterward, possibly by suicide or illness, ending his brief and controversial rule.
 
Purchasing Power of the AE Follis:
 
In the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD, the AE Follis was a widely circulated bronze coin introduced as part of Diocletian’s monetary reforms. During this period:
 
A single AE Follis could buy a few loaves of bread or a modest meal.
Soldiers were often paid in Follis coins, with an annual wage of around 1,000-1,500 Follis per legionary.
Basic commodities, such as olive oil, wine, and grain, were commonly priced in multiples of Follis.
It had less purchasing power than a silver denarius or a gold aureus, but it remained a key part of the economy.
However, due to ongoing inflation and economic instability, the value of the Follis declined significantly by the early 4th century, leading to later monetary reforms under Constantine the Great.
 
Historical Significance:
 
Political Climate: Maximinus II’s reign was part of the final struggles of the Tetrarchy, which sought to unify the empire under multiple rulers.
Religious Tensions: He was one of the last persecutors of Christians, before Constantine and Licinius enacted the Edict of Milan (313 AD), granting religious tolerance.
Economic Impact: His rule witnessed monetary inflation and continued struggles in controlling the empire’s economy and military expenditures.
 
Collector's Note:
 
Coins of Maximinus II are highly collectible, especially in EF+ condition.
 
Examples from Antioch are particularly desirable, as this mint was crucial in supplying coinage to the Eastern provinces.