Decentius Caesar
351-353 AD
Usurper in Gaul
Magnus Decentius was the brother of Magnentius and was raised to the rank of Caesar in 351 AD when Magnentius revolted against Constantius II on January 18th, 350AD. Decentius’ rise to Caesar was most likely a response due to Constantius Gallus‘ elevation to the rank of Caesar on March 15th by Constantius II. Decentius assisted his brother Magnentius in government administration in Gaul and was also responsible for the defense of the Rhine frontier. Eventually, Decentius took his own life following the defeat of his brother by Constantius II at the Battle of Mons Seleucus, where Magnentius committed suicide, Decentius, who was on his way with reinforcements. Still, upon learning of Magnentius‘ suicide, he hanged himself at Senonae.
Note that Decentius was Christian for the reverse of his Double Cent displays the early Christian symbol known as the Chi Rho, which is one of the earliest forms of christogram, used by Christians. It is formed by taking the first two (capital) letters chi and rho (ΧΡ) of the Greek word “ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ” = KRistos = Christ and superimposing them to create the monogram symbolizing the status of the Christ.
Monetary System
Mints: Ambianum, Arelate, Aquileia, Lugdunum, Rome, Siscia, Treveri
Obverse Legends:
D.N. DECENTIVS FORT CAES
DECENTIVS CAES
D.N. DECENTIVS NOB CAES
MAG DECENTIVS NOB CAES
DENOMINATIONS
AU Solidus
AU Semissis (2.15 grams) Unique
AU 1½ Scripulum
AR Miliarense
AR Siliqua
AE DOUBLE Centenionalis (Double Majorina)
AE Centenionalis (Majorina)
AE ½ Centenionalis
Imitation
