Back to Main Themes page |  Back to Religious/Mythological Symbols

Christogram

The Christogram is a monogram that exists in several variants. It is composed of the two Greek letter "chi" and "rho" that are the first two letters in the Greek "Christos" or "Christ." Its Christian origin dates to the Battle of the Milvian bridge in 312 where Constantine was reported to have seen this symbol in a vision prior to the battle. He then added it to his standards and shields to assure his victory. It subsequently began appearing on coins for Constantine and his successors.

(1 coin)
Magentius, 350-353 A.D.

AE Follis or Maiorina, 5.29g. 22mm. Trier mint.  IM CAE MAGNENTIVS AVG. Draped and cuirassed bust of Magnentius to right.  Rev. FELICITAS REIPVBLICAE; A in field to right; TRP in exergue.   Emperor standing to left holding Victory and labarum emblazoned with a Christogram. RIC VIII,264. Bastien 24. Attractive brown patina and nearly as struck. 

Provenance/Pedigree:
Ex: Mülller, Solingen, Auction 117, 2016, lot 559.

See more detailed image
Extremely Fine $750.
 

Back to Main Themes page |  Back to Religious/Mythological Symbols

Terms of Sale and Privacy Policy

View Cart

Comments and questions to webmaster@coin.com
Copyright © 1995-2025 Edward J. Waddell, Ltd. All rights reserved.