Maximianus, first reign, 286-305. Follis (Bronze, 27 mm, 8.26 g, 7 h), Treveri, circa 298-299. IMP MAXIMIANVS AVG Laureate, helmeted and cuirassed bust of Maximianus to left, wearing balteus, holding spear over his right shoulder and shield with his left hand. Rev. GENIO POPVLI ROMANI / B - ✱ / TR The Genius of the Roman people standing front, head to left, holding patera in his right hand and cornucopiae in his left. RIC -. Apparently unpublished and with an impressive military bust type, a beautiful coin. Slightly rough and with light deposits, otherwise, nearly extremely fine.


The richly adorned helmet depicted on this unpublished follis of Maximianus is very likely an imperial parade helmet. These helmets were worn by the emperor on ceremonial occasions, such as triumphal processions or during an adlocutio (a formal address to the troops). While no examples of imperial parade helmets have survived, the discovery of a very few cavalry parade helmets, such as the Guisborough Helmet or the Ribchester Helmet, illustrates the extraordinary craftsmanship lavished even on the equipment of ordinary soldiers or lower-ranking officers.

The splendor of an imperial parade helmet - surely adorned with elaborate goldwork and gemstone inlays - can only be imagined. On this coin, the decorations are suggested by an 'X' on the neck guard and a thyrsus (?) adorned with a crescent between two volutes on the helmet bowl. The ensemble is further elevated by an impressive crest and a laurel wreath draped over the helmet, symbolizing Maximianus' rank as Augustus. Completing the attire are a spear, shield, cuirass, and balteus (military belt), all of which emphasize the military context of this extraordinary issue - undoubtedly one of the most striking of the Tetrarchy.