Of no relation whatsoever to the Constantinian dynasty of the previous century, Constantine was a common soldier based in Britain. He was acclaimed emperor by his fellow soldiers in 407 after Germanic tribes posed an imminent threat that Rome was unwilling to deal with. It seems he then gathered these soldiers, abandons Britain and settles in Arelate. Soon after he names his son co-emperor, renames him Constans (again, to keep appearances) and sets off to consolidate and expand his territory. Constantine is then able to subdue Spain into his domain but loses it shortly afterwards when a revolt has Maximus (son of a powerful general) named emperor. Unable to meet this new threat, Constantine then flees but is captured and executed.
RIC 1533 Siliqua Obv: DNCONSTANTINVSPFAVG, pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
Rev: VICTORIAAAVGGG Exe: TRMS, Roma seated left, holding Victory on globe in right hand, reversed spear in left. Lot sold for $1,800 1/16/02.
