© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Antoninianus - Gordian III VIRTVS AVG; Virtus
| Silver | 3.9 g | - |
| 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 |
| Weight | 3.9 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280979 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, resting right hand on shield, and holding reversed spear in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.829–3.881 g;Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Gordian III (VIRTVS AVG; Virtus) was issued during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. Gordian III was the last emperor of the Severan dynasty and ruled from 238 to 244 AD. During his reign, the empire faced numerous challenges, including invasions by Germanic tribes, plagues, and economic instability. Despite these challenges, the coinage issued during Gordian III's reign, including the Antoninianus, remained of high quality and featured beautiful designs, showcasing the resilience and craftsmanship of Roman minting techniques.
