© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Aureus - Gordian III P M TR P VI COS II P P; Apollo
| Gold | 4 g | 20.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 241-243 |
| Value | Aureus (25⁄2) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4 g |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280834 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Apollo, nude to waist, seated left, holding branch in extended right hand and resting left elbow on lyre.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P VI COS II P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Sexta, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the sixth time, consul for the second time, father of the nation.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.18–4.85 g;Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus - Gordian III coin is that it features an image of Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, music, poetry, and prophecy, on its reverse side. This suggests that the Roman Empire, which was known for its military conquests and political power, also placed a high value on art, culture, and religion. The inclusion of Apollo's image on the coin may have been a way for the Roman Empire to promote its cultural and religious influence, as well as to showcase its artistic skills and craftsmanship.
