Constantius II AD 337-361. Siscia
Follis Æ

25 mm, 5,03 g

D N CONSTANTIVS P F AVG, pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right; A behind / CONCORDIA MILITVM, emperor standing left, holding a labarum in each hand, star above; A in left field, •ASIS✱ in exergue.

Very Fine

RIC 280.

Constantius II, whose full name was Flavius Julius Constantius, served as a Roman Emperor from AD 337 to 361. He belonged to the Constantinian dynasty and played a crucial role in a pivotal period in the Roman Empire's history. Born in AD 317 as the third son of the famed Constantine the Great and Fausta, Constantius II ascended to power following his father's death in AD 337. At the young age of 20, he became the Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire, a position he held until his own death. One of the defining aspects of Constantius II's reign was his approach to religion. He favored Arian Christianity, a theological stance that diverged from the Nicene Creed, which was supported by his brothers. This religious preference led to tensions and disputes within the empire. His reign was marred by conflict, notably with his cousin Julian the Apostate. Julian's declaration as Emperor by the legions in Gaul sparked a series of battles and campaigns known as the "Civil Wars of the Tetrarchy." Ultimately, Julian's forces prevailed, leading to significant changes in the empire. Constantius II also had to contend with the Persian Sassanid Empire, resulting in the Roman-Persian Wars. These conflicts primarily revolved around territorial disputes in the eastern provinces of the empire. Constantius II's life and reign came to an end in AD 361 while campaigning against the Persians. His death marked the conclusion of the Constantinian dynasty, and he was succeeded by his cousin Julian, who went on to become the last pagan emperor of Rome. Constantius II's rule provides a window into the complex interplay of religion, military conflict, and power struggles during the later years of the Roman Empire.