1,600-Year-Old Ancient Roman Bronze Coin Commemorating Constantinople, NGC Certified XF

The Constantinopolis Æ Follis (AD 330–346) is one of the most iconic commemorative issues of the Constantinian era, celebrating the founding of Constantinople — “New Rome” — by Constantine the Great. This NGC XF example, traced to the renowned Epfig Hoard, represents a pivotal moment when the center of Roman power shifted permanently eastward to a city that would shape more than a millennium of Byzantine history.

The obverse bears the legend CONSTANTINOPOLIS, accompanied by a helmeted and draped bust of the personification of the new capital. She is shown facing left, wearing imperial attire and holding a scepter over her shoulder — a visual declaration that this was no ordinary city, but a capital imbued with authority and destiny.

The reverse depicts Victory standing on the prow of a ship, holding a scepter and resting on a shield. This maritime imagery underscores Constantinople’s strategic control of the Bosporus and its naval dominance. The type was struck at multiple imperial mints between AD 330 and 346, reinforcing the propaganda message across the empire.

The Epfig Hoard, discovered in 1866 in Alsace, is one of the most significant Constantinian bronze hoards ever found, offering valuable insight into 4th-century circulation and mint practices.

As a bronze commemorative follis (16–18 mm, 2.0–3.0 g), this coin marks the dedication of Constantinople in AD 330 and the beginning of Rome’s transformation from pagan imperial tradition to Christian empire. For collectors, it is an essential Constantinian type — a tangible celebration of the city that would become the heart of Byzantium.

Note: Coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, not the exact specimen. For grading definitions, please consult NGC’s official standards.