NGC XF EXTREMELY FINE Roman AE3 of Crispus (AD 304-326) Son and Enemy of Constantine 

Unlike his younger half-brothers, Constantine’s eldest son Crispus was not born ”in the purple“—that is, his father was not emperor when he was born—so he was not a spoiled child. Indeed, his upbringing was similar to Constantine’s own. Thus it is no surprise that Crispus, named Caesar at age 17 and given control of the Gallic lands, proved himself in battles with the Goths. He was very well liked by the Roman people, and Crispus had already demonstrated not only his prowess as a military and naval commander, but his popularity with the troops under his command and the populace, so Constantine may have already regarded him as a potential threat. Constantine's decision to execute his son Crispus is a complex and controversial historical event. The exact reasons for Crispus's execution are not entirely clear, and there are various theories and interpretations. Some historians suggest that political intrigue and power struggles within the Roman Empire may have played a role in the decision. Some believe it was over an affair with his stepmother, Fausta; as she was drowned in her bathtub shortly after Crispus' death.

Graded XF ( Extremely Fine ) and Certified by NGC

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Historical Information Card

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