© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
Obol - Gordian III and Tranquillina Mesambria
| Bronze | 11.58 g | 25 mm |
| Issuer | Mesambria (Thracia) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Empress | Tranquillina (Furia Sabina Tranquillina) (241-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 241-244 |
| Value | Obol (⅙) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 11.58 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#76459 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Two Curetes, helmeted and clad in short tunics, each holding short sword and shield over head
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΜΕCΑΜΒΡΙΑΝΩΝ
Interesting fact
The Obol coin , which features Gordian III and Tranquillina, is a rare example of a Roman imperial coin that was issued outside of Rome, specifically in the city of Mesambria (now known as Nessebar) in Thracia (modern-day Bulgaria). This coin was part of a series of coins issued by Gordian III during his reign (238-244 AD) to promote the cult of the Roman emperors and to strengthen the bond between the imperial court and the provinces. The fact that it was issued in a distant province like Thracia suggests that the Roman Empire had a strong influence and presence in the region, and that the local population was actively engaged in trade and commerce with the rest of the empire.