Antoninianus - Gordian III P M TR P V COS II P P; Hercules
| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 242-243 |
| 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#280946 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, nude except for lion-skin draped over left arm, advancing right, holding raised club in right hand and bow in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P V COS II P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Quinta, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the fifth time, consul for the second time, father of the nation.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Gordian III and Hercules was issued 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 V COS II P P," which means "Pater Patriae, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul for the second time, Father of the Fatherland." This legend was used by previous emperors, but Gordian III was the last to use it, signifying the end of an era in Roman coinage. Additionally, the image of Hercules on the coin was a common motif during this time period, as Hercules was seen as a symbol of strength and power, reflecting the Roman Empire's desire to project its power and influence across the ancient world.