Dupondius - Gordian III VIRTVS AVG S C; Virtus
| Bronze | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 240-239 |
| Value | Dupondius (1⁄16) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#281094 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, in military attire, standing front, head left, holding branch in right hand and spear in left hand; against right side, shield resting.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG S C
Translation:
Virtus Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperor. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Dupondius - Gordian III coin is that it features the image of the Roman goddess Virtus (Virtue) on its reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage during the 3rd century AD. The image of Virtus was meant to symbolize the moral and military strength of the Roman Empire, and it was often depicted holding a spear and a shield. The use of Virtus on coins during this period was a way for the Roman government to promote the idea of virtue and moral excellence to the population, and to reinforce the idea that the Roman Empire was a powerful and virtuous state.