D N CONSTA-NS P F AVG, pearl-diademed head right / GLORI-A EXERC-ITVS, two soldiers holding spears and shields, one standard between them with dot on banner. Mintmark SMKΓ. 16mm, 1.49 grams. Cyzicus mint, minted 347-348 CE. RIC VIII 48.

Struck on a nice large flan.

Constans was the youngest son of Constantine the Great and became Roman emperor after his father’s death in 337. He initially ruled Italy, Africa, and Illyricum, while sharing power with his brothers Constantine II and Constantius II. After defeating and killing Constantine II in 340, Constans gained control of the western provinces. His reign was marked by support for Nicene Christianity in opposition to Arianism, as well as campaigns against the Franks and other frontier threats. However, his rule became unpopular due to perceived favoritism and personal conduct, leading to his overthrow by the usurper Magnentius in 350, during which Constans was captured and killed.