'Follis' of the 'House of Constantine'
Roman, AD330-335
One of over 800 coins found in a hoard on Chilbolton Down, Chilbolton, Hampshire
The Roman empire in the 4th century was very different from that of earlier centuries. For instance, there were usually several emperors at one time, often assisted by junior emperors or caesars. The outline history is perhaps easiest to grasp in terms of a succession of ruling houses or dynasties: the 'House of Constantine' (AD306-364); the 'House of Valentinian' (AD364-392) and the 'House of Theodosius' (AD379-423). The types of coins issued are some of the most commonly found in Britain. This coin was issued in connection with the foundation of Constantinople as the eastern capital of the Empire. The obverse displays a head personifying Constantinople with the reverse showing the figure of winged Victory on a prow.