Christian Chi Rho Coin Pendant

Coin: Bronze Double Maiorina
Obverse: Portrait of Emperor Magnentius
Reverse: Christian Chi Rho Symbol
Date: 350 - 353 A.D.
Bezel: Sterling Silver
Weight:  10.71 grams
Diameter: 27 mm / 1.06 in

Description

This item is an authentic Roman bronze coin, placed in a handmade bezel of Sterling Silver. There is only 1 of this item; you will receive the exact pendant shown in the photos.  

Chain necklaces can be purchased separately through this link.

History of the Artifact

The double maiorina struck under the usurper Magnentius in the mid-4th century AD is one of the most historically and visually striking coins of the late Roman period. Issued during his brief reign from AD 350 to 353, this large bronze coin stood out not only for its impressive size—significantly larger than most contemporary issues—but also for its groundbreaking religious symbolism. The reverse prominently displays a Chi-Rho monogram, one of the earliest and most unmistakable Christian symbols, composed of the superimposed Greek letters Χ (Chi) and Ρ (Rho), the first two letters of Christos. The symbol is flanked by the Greek letters alpha and omega, referencing the phrase from the Book of Revelation where Christ declares himself "the beginning and the end." This marked one of the earliest instances of overt Christian iconography on Roman coinage.

Magnentius’ decision to feature such a bold Christian emblem likely served both political and religious purposes. As a usurper who seized power after the assassination of Constans, he needed to legitimize his rule quickly, particularly in the Christian West. By placing the Chi-Rho on coinage circulated throughout his territories, Magnentius aligned himself with Constantine the Great, who had famously used the symbol in his military campaigns and public image. Despite this effort, his reign ended in defeat at the hands of Constantius II, and with it, the production of these unique coins ceased. Today, the double maiorina of Magnentius is highly prized by collectors, not just for its rarity and size, but for its bold expression of early imperial Christianity.

Authenticity

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1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

Your order will include:

• Roman Chi Rho Coin Pendant shown in photos
• Certificate of Authenticity

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