Constantine II (337-350). 2 solidi multiple or medallion 327, Thessalonica.

ROMAN EMPIRE Constantine II (337-350). Multiple or medallion of the weight of 2 solidi 327, Thessaloniki.
Obv. CONSTANTINVS - NOB C. Diademed head facing right.
Rev. In four lines: VOTIS / X / CAES. N/SMTS.
RIC 166 (Berlin, same dies) - C. 278 - Gnecchi I, 26, 22, pl.8/8 - Depeyrot (1995), p.154 = this exact coin; Gold - 8.78g - 26.5 mm - 12 h.
From the Nelson Bunker Hunt collection, Sotheby's New York sale, June 21th-22th 1990 n° 871
NGC CH XF 5/5 3/5 marks. Only 2 known examples with the one in the Berlin Cabinet ! Minimal marks and scratches, and a tiny notch on the rim at 4 o'clock on the reverse. Well-centered with a remarkable portrait. Extremely fine.

Constantine II was the eldest son of Constantine the Great and his second wife Fausta, born in 316. Constantine I wanted to establish his own dynasty and granted his son the title of Caesar when he was only one year old. This medallion is struck for its tenth anniversary. Using a style first seen under the reign of his father, Young Caesar is looking at the sky. Medallions or multiples were gifts offered by the Emperor to high-ranking personalities. In our case, the medallion would have been offered by the young Caesar himself. In 326, his half-brother Crispus is disgraced and executed, as well as Fausta, under unclear circumstances. In 327, Constantine II was named commander of Gaul, replacing Crispus.