© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Dupondius - Gordian III LAETITIA AVG N S C; Laetitia
| Bronze | 13.2 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 241-244 |
| Value | Dupondius (1⁄16) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 13.2 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#281112 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Laetitia, draped, standing left, holding wreath in extended right hand and anchor set on ground in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: LAETITIA AVG N S C
Translation:
Laetitia Augusti Nostri. Senatus Consultum.
Joy of our emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.
Comment
Example of this type:Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Dupondius - Gordian III coin features an image of Laetitia, the Roman goddess of happiness and prosperity, on its reverse side. This is significant because it suggests that the Roman Empire, which was known for its military conquests and political power, also valued the idea of happiness and prosperity for its citizens. The inclusion of Laetitia on the coin may have been a way for the Roman government to promote a sense of well-being and contentment among its people, which is an interesting insight into the empire's values and priorities.
