A.D. 355–361 Bronze Centenionalis Constantius II Gladiator Coin

Hold The Glory Of Rome In The Palm Of Your Hand

When your famous father appoints you Caesar at an age when most children are just learning how to read and write, you’re stepping into some pretty big sandals. But when that father is Emperor Constantine the Great, those sandals can be epic! So it was with Constantius II, who became Caesar at 7, and a Roman Emperor at age 20. Today, he’s remembered for helping continue his father’s work of bringing Christianity to the Roman Empire, as well as for his valiant leadership in battle. But for many collectors, his strongest legacy is having created one of the most fascinating and unique bronze coins in the history of the Roman Empire: the Bronze Centenionalis, known today as the “Gladiator’s Paycheck.”

The Gladiator's Paycheck

Roman bronze coins were the “silver dollars” of their day. They were the coins used for daily purchases, as well as for the payment of wages. Elite Roman Gladiators—paid to do battle before cheering crowds in the Colosseum—often received their monthly “paycheck” in the form of Roman bronze coins. But this particular Roman bronze coin has a gladiator pedigree like no other! Minted between 355 to 361 AD, the Emperor’s portrait appears on one side of this coin. The other side depicts a literal clash of the gladiators. One warrior raises his spear menacingly at a second warrior on horseback. Frozen in bronze for more than 1,600 years, the drama of this moment can still be felt when you hold the coin. Surrounding this dramatic scene is a Latin inscription—a phrase you would never expect in a million years!

Happy Days Are Here Again

The Latin inscription surrounding the gladiators reads: “Happy Days are Here Again” (FEL TEMP REPARATIO). You see, at the time these coins were designed, Constantius had just won several important military battles against the enemies of Rome. At the same time, Romans were preparing to celebrate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Rome. That’s why this joyful inscription was added—to mark these momentous occasions.

A Miracle Of Survival For 1,600 Years

For more than sixteen centuries, these stunning coins have survived the rise and fall of empires, earthquakes, floods, and two world wars. The relatively few Roman bronze coins that have survived were often part of buried treasure hoards, hidden away for centuries until rediscovered. These authentic Roman coins can be found in major museums around the world. But today, thanks to this opportunity, you can find them a little closer to home: your home!

Claim Your Very Own Genuine Roman Gladiator Bronze Coin

Each Bronze Centenionalis available here comes housed in a mini album with a story card to provide context for why this coin is so special and important. A Certificate of Authenticity will also accompany your coin. Unfortunately, quantities are extremely limited, and demand is certain to be overwhelming so order yours now and secure an authentic piece of the Roman Empire! Hurry, the battle to get one is now underway!