MONOGRAM OF CHRIST

Denotes the presence of Christ, and is also referred to as the Sign of Constantine, because Constantine had put it on the labarum. There are the apocalyptic letters a and w between the arms of the cross (Rev. 1:8, 21:6, 22:13). The Monogram is surrounded by a palm-leaf wreath, symbolizing a reward for victory. For the first time it is clearly seen on the coins of Constantius (306-337) and Constans II (337-350), and it may be traced up to 451 or 475.