Roman Coins of London

Roman Coins from London – Featuring Crispus and Licinius

During the early 4th century AD, Roman London (Londinium) was home to one of the western empire’s official mints. Among the coins struck here are rare and fascinating issues bearing the images of Crispus, son of Constantine the Great, and Licinius, Constantine’s one-time ally and later rival.

Crispus (Caesar, 317–326 AD)
Crispus was elevated to the rank of Caesar by his father and quickly gained a reputation as a capable military leader. Coins minted in London during his time often depict him in heroic military poses, emphasizing his role as a defender of the empire. These include follis-type bronzes with reverse designs showing figures like Victory or standards symbolizing imperial power.

Licinius (Augustus, 308–324 AD)
Licinius ruled the eastern provinces for much of his reign and was a key figure in the civil wars of the Tetrarchy. London-issued coins of Licinius typically show his stern portrait in profile, wearing the imperial laurel wreath, and reverses with themes of military strength and divine favor—such as Jupiter holding a thunderbolt.

Mint Mark:
Coins from the London mint often carry the mark "PLON", standing for Pecunia Londiniensis (Money of London), helping to identify their place of origin.

These coins not only reflect the complex political landscape of the later Roman Empire but also underscore London’s importance as a provincial city with imperial reach.