Crispus, Caesar, 316-326. Follis (Bronze, 15 mm, 1.34 g, 6 h), a contemporary imitation of an issue from Treveri. Uncertain mint in Gaul (?), circa 333-340 (?). Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Crispus to left. Rev. CRISPVS / CAESAR / PTR in three lines; above, laurel wreath with pellet. Cf. RIC 488 (for prototype). Failmezger pl. 22, 336jCR (this coin). M. Harlick: Anepigraphic bronze coins of Constantine and family, in: The Celator 21 (2007), fig. 20 (same dies). Zschucke 2002, 15.8 (same dies). Rare and well struck on a full flan. Very fine.


This is one of three known examples from these dies. As discussed under lots 2930-2932 above, this imitation of a dynastic bronze was most probably struck after 333. By then, it was at least eight years since Crispus was executed and suffered a damnatio memoriae. His name was erased wherever found, and coins bearing his name were withdrawn. Clearly this did not deter the unofficial minters from striking imitations in his name.