Nomos 37

Julian II, The Philosopher, 361-363. Solidus (Gold, 21 mm, 4.44 g, 1 h), Sirmium. FL CL IVLIA-NVS PP AVG Pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Julian to right. Rev. VIRTVS EXERCI-TVS ROMANORVM / (palm)SIRM(wreath) Armored soldier advancing to right, his head turned back to left, holding a trophy with his left hand and grasping the hair of a kneeling captive with his right. Cohen 78. Depeyrot 22/1. RIC 99a. Lustrous and attractive. Minor marks, otherwise, extremely fine.

From an American collection.

Julian II was the last descendent of Constantine I to rule the empire and, at the same time, the last pagan emperor (the latter factor contributing to the ‘bad press’ he received from the writings of Church commentators). His basic interest was in restoring the glories of the past. Born in 331, he was the son of Constantine I’s half-brother Julius Constantius and his early years were happy ones. However, most of his family was destroyed in the massacres of 337 that were planned by Constantius II. He was spared because of his age and was moved to Nicomedia where he received a first-rate education, especially in Neo-Platonic philosophy. Since there were no suitable male relatives left alive, Constantius II appointed Julian as Caesar in 355 with responsibility for the western provinces. He proved to be an able general and administrator, but his successes aroused Constantius’ jealousy, ultimately leading to Julian’s soldiers proclaiming him Augustus in 360. There would have been a bloody civil war, but, luckily, Constantius died of natural causes before it could begin, and Julian acceded to the throne unopposed.