Antoninianus - Gordian III (MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM; Mars) (243-244) front Antoninianus - Gordian III (MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM; Mars) (243-244) back
Antoninianus - Gordian III (MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM; Mars) (243-244) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gordian III MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM; Mars

 
Silver 4.4 g 23.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
243-244
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
4.4 g
Diameter
23.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#280877
Rarity index
84%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, in military attire, hastening right, holding transverse spear in right hand and shield in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM

Translation:
Martem Propugnatorem.
Of Mars, the defender.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.25–6.11 g;
Diameter varies: 23–24.5 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the Roman god of war, Mars, on one side, and the emperor Gordian III on the other. This coin was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire, with Gordian III facing challenges from external threats such as the Persians and internal conflicts within the empire. Despite these challenges, the coinage of this period continued to be minted with high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, as seen in the intricate designs and inscriptions on this Antoninianus.