★ The assimilation of Hercules and Maximianus ★

Maximianus, first reign, 286-305. Follis (Silvered bronze, 27 mm, 7.55 g, 12 h), Alexandria, circa 304-305. IMP C M A MAXIMIANVS P F AVG Laureate head of Maximianus to right. Rev. HERCVLI - VICTORI / Δ / S - P / ALE Hercules. laureate, standing front, head to left, leaning on club with his right hand and holding apples in his left; lion skin draped over his left arm. RIC 38. Minor deposits, otherwise, nearly very fine.

An interesting minor detail about this coin is the clear assimilation of Hercules on the reverse with Maximianus: not only does the demi-god wear a laurel wreath, his head is also clearly modelled after that of the emperor.