Obverse:
Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Magnentius
right. Text around D N MAGNENTIVS P F AVG.
Reverse:
Magnentius
in military uniform standing left holding
small victory with wreath in right hand and
labarum (staff with the Greek letters Chi-Rho
on top) in the left hand. Text around FELICITAS
REIPVBLICE, meaning happiness and prosperity
for the state.
History:
Magnentius was a general of great skill, becoming
one of the empires foremost military leaders
during the reign of Constans. However, in
350 A.D. he rebelled and took control of the
Western provinces. Not content with official
recognition by Constantius II, he invaded
the latter's territory and after some initial
success, met with a great defeat at Mursa.
After a retreat into Gaul, he was abandoned
by his soldiers and committed suicide.
Date:
Lugdunum mint. Struck circa 350-353AD
Diameter:
2.3cm
