Delmatius Roman AE (AD 335-337) NGC

Own a certified Roman bronze AE of Delmatius (AD 335–337), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin represents the brief and often overlooked reign of one of Constantine the Great’s extended family members during a fragile moment of imperial transition.

Delmatius was the grandson of Constantius Chlorus, Constantine’s father, and was born near present-day Toulouse in Roman Gaul. His father, also named Delmatius, held the high-ranking title of censor, a rare position by the fourth century that reflected the family’s prestige within the imperial court.

In 335 AD, Constantine the Great, preparing for the succession of his vast empire, elevated several of his relatives to imperial titles. Delmatius was named Caesar, responsible for parts of the Balkan provinces. His appointment was part of Constantine’s broader plan to distribute power among trusted family members to secure stability after his death.

However, when Constantine died in 337 AD, the delicate balance unraveled. In the violent purges that followed, designed to consolidate power among Constantine’s direct sons, Delmatius was executed, along with several other potential rivals. His brief reign and tragic end highlight the ruthless politics of imperial succession.

Bronze AE coins of Delmatius are relatively scarce and typically feature his youthful, diademed portrait on the obverse, with reverses promoting military security, divine favor, or dynastic unity — key messages during Constantine’s efforts to secure his dynasty.

Certified by NGC, this AE coin offers collectors a rare glimpse into the fleeting and often dangerous role of junior emperors during Rome’s fourth-century power struggles.