Arcadius, Flavius lived from 377 to 408. He was the eldest son of Emperor Theodosius I. In 383 he already participated in the life of the Empire as a co-ruler, and after the death of his father he became emperor in the eastern part of the divided Empire. The eastern half of the Empire was economically stronger, so he could more effectively fight the enemies that were attacking the state. The Empire finally fell during his reign in 395.

Coinage of Arcadius between 383–388 During this period, Arcadius was still co-emperor with his father, Theodosius I. Main features of coinage: Gold coins: Solidus was the most important gold coin introduced by Constantine the Great. Its weight was about 4.54 grams, and the mint mark was often CONOB (Constantinople mint, obverse – pure gold). Silver coins: Siliqua and miliarense were typical. The weight of siliqua was about 3.41 grams, while miliarense existed in two versions: 4.54 and 5.54 grams. Bronze coins: Small denomination bills, often marked with a mint mark. The quality and fineness of coinage was still relatively stable at this time. Mints: Constantinople, Antioch, Alexandria and other cities were active. Coins often bore mintmarks, such as CON, ANT, ALE. Coinage of Arcadius between 388 and 395 This period was closer to Arcadius' independent Eastern Empire, especially after 395, when the empire was officially divided. Gold coins: The solidus remained dominant. The mint mark (e.g. CONOB) guaranteed the purity and weight of the money. Silver coins: The siliqua and miliarense continued to be used, but their fineness gradually decreased. Coinage was increasingly adapted to the needs of the Eastern Empire. Bronze coins: Newer mint marks appeared in coinage, such as SMANT, SMANA, which denoted the different workshops of the Antiochian mint. Style and iconography: Arcadius' portrait is often depicted with a radiant crown, while the reverse features religious or military motifs.