Constantine I, 307/310-337. Follis (Bronze, 21 mm, 2.80 g, 12 h), a contemporary imitation of an issue from Arelate. Irregular mint, after 327. CONSTAN-TNVS AVG Perl-diademed head of Constantine I to right. Rev. VIRTV-S AVGG / ARLP Campgate with open doors and four turrets; above, star. Cf. RIC 314 (for prototype). Traces of overstriking, otherwise, very fine.



This imitation showcases an unusually fine style, only revealing its unofficial nature through irregular lettering and a spelling mistake in the obverse legend. It is overstruck on an official coin of IOVI CONSERVATORI / SMK_ (? SMH_ or SMN_) from Licinius II, where parts of DN VAL_ are still visible on the forehead, alongside a profile featuring a helmet, hand, and spear (bust H2l), dating from 321-324. Licinius' coin had been demonetized in Constantine's territory. By overstriking it with a western type, the unofficial mint elevated its value from 0 to 1, enabling it to re-enter circulation.