Jovian AD 363-364. Thessaloniki
Double Maiorina Æ

27 mm, 8,07 g

D N IOVIANV-S P F P P AVG, rosette-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right / VICTORIA ROMANORVM, • TESA • below, Jovian standing facing, head right, holding labarum with right hand and victoriola with left.

Very Fine

RIC VIII, 238.

Flavius Jovianus, commonly known as Jovian, assumed the Roman imperial throne in AD 363 following the death of Emperor Julian. Born in AD 331 in Singidunum (modern Belgrade), Jovian was raised as a Christian. His military career flourished, and under Julian, he became the commander of the imperial bodyguard. Jovian's ascension to emperorhood occurred swiftly after Julian's demise during a battle with the Sassanids. Facing intensified Persian attacks, Jovian negotiated a peace treaty in AD 363, relinquishing significant territories. Critics, especially among contemporaries, lamented the perceived losses, notably the fortified city of Nisibis. In domestic policy, Jovian reversed Julian's anti-Christian stance, promoting religious tolerance and supporting Christianity while confiscating temple assets. His reign, however, lasted only one winter, ending abruptly in 364 when he died unexpectedly in Dadastana. The circumstances of his death, possibly due to carbon monoxide poisoning, remain debated. Despite mixed assessments of his rule, Jovian's pragmatic approach in securing the retreat of Roman troops from the East is recognized. While criticized for the territorial concessions to Persia, some modern scholars highlight Jovian's attempts at reconciliation and the normalization of relations between the Roman and Persian empires. Theological historian Theodoret commended Jovian for ending Christian persecution, providing a nuanced view of his short-lived but significant reign.