2022-05-16 Mon

The laurel wreath has endured for millennia in the public imagination as one of the defining symbols of ancient Rome. Various crowns and wreaths worn by people and rulers had different meanings.

Constantine issued a gold solidus in 326 A.D. which has a unique depiction of the wreath. The coin depicts interconnecting wreaths forming an infinity symbol on the reverse. However, the obverse depicts a spare, expressive portrait of Constantine, head right, wearing a plain diadem, with his eyes looking heavenward.

The type of wreath shown in the reverse symbolizes peace as it was not a wreath won by military actions and the infinity symbol denotes the hope for long-lasting peace. One of such coins was recently sold for 27,500 USD at CNG’s Auction 115.

Image Courtesy: coinworld.com