Rom-Br-Licinius-1St-Redfol2 Roman Empire, Licinius I (308-324 Ce), Reduced Follis(C)

Licinius was a colleague of Constantine the Great in the Tetrarchy or shared system of government founded by Diocletian. However, he would ultimately become Constantine’s greatest rival, as they both vied to become sole master of the empire. Maligned by the later pro-Constantine Christian writers, he is often portrayed as anti-Christian. In reality, he co-authored the Edict of Milan with Constantine, granting toleration to Christians. Captured following his defeat at the Battle of Chrysopolis, he was initially spared due to the pleas of his wife, Constantine's sister. However, he was hung the next year, having been accused of conspiring with barbarians.