© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Aureus - Gordian III IOVI CONSERVATORI; Jupiter
| Gold | 4.9 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 238-239 |
| Value | Aureus (25⁄2) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.9 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280736 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Jupiter, nude except for cloak on shoulders, standing front, head left, holding vertical sceptre in left hand and thunderbolt in right hand over Gordian III, togate, standing left and raising right hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IOVI CONSERVATORI
Translation: To Jupiter the Protector.
Comment
Mass varies: 4.83–4.9 g;Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus coin featuring Gordian III is that it 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 barbarian tribes, internal power struggles, and economic instability. Despite these challenges, the coinage issued during Gordian III's reign, including the Aureus, remained of high quality and beauty, showcasing the enduring artistic and cultural achievements of the Roman Empire.
