CONSTANTINOPOLIS Angel of Victory Standing on Galley Prow ☆ 59

Denomination: Nummus

Historical Period: Roman: Imperial (27 BC-476 AD)

Cleaned/Uncleaned: Uncleaned

Composition: Bronze

Provenance: Ownership History Available

Year: 330 AD

Era: Ancient

Fineness: 0.9

KM Number: 90

Ruler: Constantine I

Country of Origin: Italy

Own an authentic piece of ancient world history. Issued under Constantine the Great (c. 330–337 AD), this historic bronze nummus was minted to commemorate the official founding and dedication of his magnificent new Christian capital, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), in 330 AD.

The reverse features one of the most iconic, late-antique allegorical designs: Victoria (the Angel of Victory) standing winged on the prow of a Roman galley ship, holding a spear and resting her hand on a shield. Symbolizing Rome's naval dominance and the divine triumph of Constantine's new empire, this imagery was a direct precursor to early Christian depictions of winged angels. Struck nearly 1,700 years ago, this bronze issue remains an absolute staple for collectors of imperial Roman, Byzantine, and early Christian numismatics.