© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Gordian III VIRTVTI AVGVSTI; Hercules
| Silver | 3 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 | 3 g |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280846 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 89% |
Reverse
Hercules, nude, standing right, resting right hand on hip and resting left hand on club set on rock; beside club, lion-skin.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI
Translation:
Virtuti Augusti.
To the courage of the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Mass varies: 2.82–3.34 g;Diameter varies: 19.91–21 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Denarius - Gordian III coin features an image of Hercules on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the 3rd century AD. Hercules was a popular figure in Roman mythology and was often associated with strength and courage. The inclusion of Hercules on this coin may have been a way to emphasize Gordian III's own strength and leadership qualities, as well as to promote the idea of Roman power and dominance.
