★ Constantine I or Constantius II? ★

Commemorative Series, circa 337-361 (?). 1/3 Siliqua (Silver, 14 mm, 1.00 g, 12 h), Constantinopolis, struck under Constantius II (?). Perl-diademed, draped and cuirassed male bust (Constantine I or Constantius II?) to right; all within pelleted circle. Rev. Large K within pelleted circle. Bendall 2008, figs. 2 and 2A ( this coin ). Apparently unique. Somewhat porous and with a flan crack, otherwise, good very fine.

From the collection of Dr. L. Ramskold, privately acquired from Spink & Son in 2012 and reportedly found in Wiltshire (Wessex).

This coin was the subject of a detailed analysis by Bendall (2008). As described by Bendall, the obverse depicts an emperor. He is draped, cuirassed, and wears a pearl diadem with a rectangular front medallion. No such diadem is known from the reign of Constantine I, so this piece must date from after 337. Bendall suggested that the emperor is Constantius II, although perhaps Constantine I was meant, as the appearance of the city founder would make sense on festival coins from Constantinopolis.