Arcadius – "Concordia AVGG" (AD 401–403) Bronze Nummus

This scarce and attractive bronze nummus was struck during the later reign of Emperor Arcadius, ruler of the Eastern Roman Empire. The reverse celebrates imperial unity through the personification of Concordia.

• Obverse: Helmeted, pearl-diademed, and cuirassed bust of Arcadius facing right, seen three-quarter facing, holding a spear over shoulder and a shield adorned with a cross.
  Legend: DN ARCADI-VS P F AVG – “Our Lord Arcadius, Dutiful and Fortunate Augustus.”

• Reverse: Concordia seated facing, turned right, helmeted and draped, holding a Victory on globe in her left hand and a long sceptre in her right. Her foot rests on a prow of a ship, symbolizing naval strength and imperial dominion.
  Legend: CONCORDIA AVGG – “Harmony of the Emperors”
  Exergue: SMKA – Cyzicus mint, 1st officina.

With excellent centering, a crisp bust, and a rich dark patina with sandy accents, this coin is a superb example of late Roman bronze struck during the final years of the 4th century.