Follis of Licinius I, Nicomedia 321 - 324

Editor: This is a Follis of Licinius I from Nicomedia. It's a small coin, but I'm struck by how much information is crammed into such a tiny space. What can you tell me about its historical context? Curator: Well, these coins were essentially propaganda tools. Mass produced, they circulated widely, carrying carefully crafted messages of power and legitimacy. Think about the Roman Empire’s control over imagery. Who is depicted, and what symbols are emphasized? Editor: I see the portrait of Licinius I. And on the other side, a figure... Victory, maybe? Curator: Exactly! The image of Victory was a powerful symbol meant to legitimize his reign. How do you think this imagery would have been received by the general populace at the time? Editor: I imagine it was a constant reminder of his authority. It’s fascinating how art played such a direct political role. Curator: Indeed. And the study of these coins gives us insight into the power dynamics of the era.