Constans AD 337-350. Thessaloniki
Follis Æ

21 mm, 4,07 g

D N CONSTANS P F AVG, pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust facing, head left, holding globe / FEL TEMP REPARATIO, soldier standing, facing, head left, leading a youth by the hand, out from hut under tree, and holding a spear, pointing down; in exergue TESЄ.

Very Fine

RIC VIII 118.

Constans I, also known as Constans the Great, was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 337 to 350 AD. He was a member of the Constantinian dynasty and played a pivotal role in the Roman Empire during the fourth century. Constans was born in 320 AD as the son of Constantine the Great and Fausta. After his father's death, Constans and his brothers, Constantine II and Constantius II, divided the empire among themselves. Constans ruled over the western provinces, including Italy, Africa, and parts of Gaul. His reign saw a series of challenges and conflicts. One of the notable events during his rule was the conflict with the usurper Magnentius, who controlled much of the western provinces. Constans was able to defeat Magnentius in a decisive battle in 353 AD, reaffirming his control over the western part of the Roman Empire. Constans was known for his policies promoting Christianity, following the example of his father Constantine the Great. He actively supported the Christian Church and worked to suppress pagan practices. Despite his initial victory over Magnentius, Constans faced opposition and discontent from various quarters. His rule was marked by tensions and conflicts, and in 350 AD, he was assassinated by supporters of the usurper Magnentius in a military coup. Constans I's reign was a time of transition and upheaval in the Roman Empire, with both political and religious changes occurring. His support for Christianity and his efforts to maintain control over the western provinces left an enduring impact on the history of the Roman Empire during this period.