ROMAN EMPIRE - NOVEL Licinius I (308-324). Aureus, decennalia of 11 November ND (317), Nicomedia, 4th dispensary. Av. LICINIVS - AVGVSTVS. Head diademed right. Rv. IOVI CONS - LICINI AVG / SMNΔ. Laureate Jupiter seated left on a throne, holding a spear in his left hand and a victory crown in his right hand, an eagle holding a crown in its beak at his feet, all on a dais inscribed SIC X / SIC XX. Calicó 5100 v. - RIC.20 v. - Bastian, Donativa 126, 14 (Pl.14); Gold - 5.26 g - 19.5 mm - 1 h NGC MS 5/5 4/5 (8558294-004). Close to mint condition with minor handling marks and a nice golden patina. Almost corner flower. The year 317 saw Licinius celebrate the 10th anniversary of his reign, in a period of calm and stability, which enabled him to elevate his young 2-year-old son to the rank of Caesar. This aureus seemed to give thanks for these ten years of reign and asked the gods for their favour for a further ten years. Licinius used Jupiter for his propaganda and showed his opposition to his co-emperor Constantine, who had converted to Christianity. In 320, Licinius unleashed a persecution of Christians in the Eastern Empire, which further alienated him from Constantine. Constantine invaded Licinius' lands in 323, routed Licinius' fleet and finally won the battle of Chrysopolis in 325, after which Licinius I and his son were executed. * Following Council Directive (EU) 2022/542 of April 5, 2022, implemented in national law from 01/01/2025, buyers from within the EU have to pay 5.5% VAT on the hammer price of this lot. * Following Council Directive (EU) 2022/542 of April 5, 2022, implemented in national law from 01/01/2025, buyers from within the EU have to pay 5.5% VAT on the hammer price of this lot.