Antoninianus - Gordian III LAETITIA AVG N; Laetitia
| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 238-244 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280971 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Laetitia, draped, standing left, holding wreath in extended right hand and anchor set on ground in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: LAETITIA AVG N
Translation:
Laetitia Augusti Nostri.
Joy of our emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Gordian III and the goddess Laetitia is notable for its unique design. On the obverse side, Gordian III's portrait is depicted with a distinctive "beard" made of small, circular dots, which was a common feature of Roman coins during this period. However, the reverse side of the coin features a rare representation of the goddess Laetitia, who is shown seated on a throne, holding a scepter and a small figure of the goddess Victory. This representation of Laetitia is one of the earliest known depictions of the goddess on a Roman coin, making it a significant piece of numismatic history.