Licinius I (AD 308–324) Roman Empire BI Reduced Nummus NGC XF

Licinius I — Rival Emperor in the Age of Constantine

This billon reduced nummus represents Licinius I, an Augustus whose long contest with Constantine I ended the Tetrarchic division of power.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Licinius I
• Reign and issue period: AD 308–324
• Empire/region: Roman Empire
• Denomination: Reduced nummus
• Composition: BI (billon or silvered copper alloy)
• NGC grade: XF — Extremely Fine
• Sheldon-scale equivalent: 40
• Quantity supplied: One encapsulated coin

The Sheldon-scale number is an equivalent associated with the stated ancient-coin grade; it is not a separate numerical grade assigned to the coin.

Licinius I — From Imperial Colleague to Final Rival

Licinius was elevated as Augustus in AD 308 during efforts to stabilize the divided Tetrarchic government. He eventually controlled the eastern provinces and allied with Constantine, a partnership reinforced by his marriage to Constantine’s half-sister Constantia.

The alliance gave way to repeated civil wars. Constantine defeated Licinius decisively at Chrysopolis in AD 324, becoming sole ruler of the Roman Empire; Licinius was executed the following year.

What the Coin Tells Us

The reduced nummus developed from the large bronze denomination introduced in Diocletian’s reform, but its size and weight declined substantially during the early fourth century. Many pieces carried a thin silver wash over a copper-alloy core.

Licinius’ issues circulated across the eastern empire and presented themes of military success, divine protection and imperial unity. They document both the persistence and eventual collapse of shared rule.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one billon reduced nummus of Licinius I in an NGC Ancients holder, graded XF (Extremely Fine). A specific mint, issue year, reverse design, inscription, weight or diameter is not promised unless expressly stated above.

Stock-photo notice: The photographs are representative of the product offering. The coin supplied may differ from the pictured example in portrait style, reverse design, inscriptions, centering, toning, surface appearance and other individual characteristics while remaining within the stated coin type and any expressly stated grade.