Quinarius - Gordian III VIRTVTI AVGVSTI; Hercules
| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 241-243 |
| Value | Silver Quinarius (¼) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280850 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
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
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Quinarius coin featuring Gordian III (VIRTVTI AVGVSTI; Hercules) was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. Gordian III was the last emperor of the Severan dynasty and ruled from 238 to 244 AD. During his reign, the empire faced numerous challenges, including invasions by the Sassanid Persians, plagues, and economic instability. Despite these challenges, the Quinarius coin remained a popular denomination and was widely used throughout the empire. The coin's design features an image of Hercules on the reverse, which was a common motif during the Severan dynasty. Hercules was seen as a symbol of strength and power, and his image was often used to convey the idea of the emperor's divine right to rule. The obverse of the coin features an image of Gordian III with the legend VIRTVTI AVGVSTI, which translates to "The Virtue of the Augustus." This legend emphasizes the emperor's role as a virtuous leader and highlights the importance of virtue in Roman society. Overall, the Quinarius coin featuring Gordian III is an interesting example of Roman coinage during a time of significant political and social change. Its design reflects the cultural and political values of the Roman Empire during this period, and its widespread use highlights the importance of currency in facilitating trade and commerce throughout the empire.