© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Gordian III AETERNITATI AVG; Sol
| Silver | 2.7 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 | Denarius (½) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.7 g |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280841 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 87% |
Reverse
Sol, nude except for cloak around shoulders, standing front, head left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: AETERNITATI AVG
Translation:
Aeternitati Augusti.
[Dedicated to] the immortal emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Mass varies: 2.1–3.14 g;Diameter varies: 20–21.5 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman sun god, Sol, on its reverse side. This is significant because it highlights the importance of solar worship in Roman culture during the 3rd century AD, a time when the Roman Empire was facing numerous challenges and crises. Despite these challenges, the coinage of Gordian III, like this denarius, continued to promote the ideals of Roman power and divine authority.
