Maximinus II Daia AD 310-313. Antioch
Follis Æ

20 mm, 5,40 g

IMP C GAL VAL MAXIMINVS P F AVG, laureate head right / GENIO AVGVSTI / * / Δ / ANT, Genius standing left, holding head of Victory with wreath and cornucopia.

Very Fine

RIC 162b.

Gaius Galerius Valerius Maximinus, known as Maximinus Daia or Maximinus II, was a Roman Emperor who rose to power during the Tetrarchy, initially as Caesar in the eastern provinces under his uncle Galerius. He later declared himself Augustus and ruled independently in the eastern part of the Roman Empire from 311 until his death in 313. Maximinus Daia's reign was marked by aggressive policies, including severe persecutions of Christians despite earlier imperial decrees of tolerance. He also aimed to strengthen traditional Roman polytheistic practices, notably promoting the cult of Serapis. His rule was characterized by alliances and conflicts with other contenders for imperial power, particularly Licinius and Maxentius. After suffering a significant defeat against Licinius, Maximinus retreated and eventually died in Tarsus in August 313. His death, variously attributed to suicide, poisoning, or divine retribution, marked the end of his brief but impactful reign. His harsh treatment of Christians and efforts to consolidate traditional religions left a controversial legacy in Roman history.