Pentassarion - Gordian III (Demeter; Odessos) (238-244) front Pentassarion - Gordian III (Demeter; Odessos) (238-244) back
Pentassarion - Gordian III (Demeter; Odessos) (238-244) photo
© Dica35 (CC BY-NC-SA)

Pentassarion - Gordian III Demeter; Odessos

 
Bronze 10.65 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
Odessos (Moesia Inferior)
Emperor
Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
238-244
Value
1 Pentassarion = 5 Asses (5⁄16)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
10.65 g
Diameter
25 mm
Thickness
3.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#310360
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Demeter standing to the left, wearing chiton and peplos, holding a sceptre in left hand and a branch in right hand; letter E in left field.

Script: Greek

Lettering: OΔHCCEITΩN

Translation: [of] Odessos.

Interesting fact

The Pentassarion coin featuring Gordian III and Demeter from Odessos (Moesia Inferior) is notable for its unique design. On one side, it depicts a portrait of Gordian III, while on the other, it features an image of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility, holding a sheaf of grain and a torch. This combination of a Roman emperor and a Greek goddess on a single coin highlights the blending of cultures and religions that occurred during the Roman Empire. Additionally, the use of bronze as the material for the coin reflects the economic and technological advancements of the time.