In 326 AD a family tragedy befell the Roman imperial court: Crispus, the eldest son of Emperor Constantine I (307-337) from his first marriage, was sentenced to death by order of the court. The verdict was executed immediately. Which crime Crispus was accused of, we do not know. He most probably fell victim to an intrigue by Flavia Maxima Fausta, Constantine's second wife. It is said that Fausta was anxious to secure the succession for her own sons.
The death of Crispus was a big loss for Rome. Times were hard, and Crispus was a talented and promising young man. His father Constantine had made him Ceasar when he was only eight years of age.
The heroic illustration of Crispus on this coin shows the big hopes that Constantine had for him. The youngster is depicted with a laurel wreath, a spear and a shield. The reverse of the coin shows a globe on an altar.