Antoninianus - Gordian III P M TR P II COS P P; Mars
239 year| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 239 |
| 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#280757 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, nude except for cloak around waist (?), advancing right, holding spear in right hand and trophy set against left shoulder in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P II COS P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Secunda, Consul, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the second time, consul, father of the nation.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin , which features Gordian III and Mars on its reverse, was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. Gordian III was the last Roman emperor to issue coins with the legend "P M TR P II COS P P," which stands for "Pater patriae, tribunicia potestate, consul potens," meaning "Father of the country, tribunician power, powerful consul." This legend was used by emperors who wanted to emphasize their authority and connection to the Roman Senate. Additionally, the fact that the coin is made of silver is notable, as silver coins were considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity in ancient Rome. The use of silver in coins also allowed for more intricate designs and details, as it was a softer and more malleable metal than other metals used in coinage, such as bronze or copper. Overall, the Antoninianus coin is a fascinating piece of history that provides a glimpse into the political and economic climate of the Roman Empire during Gordian III's reign.