© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Gordian I VIRTVS AVGG S C; Virtus
238 year| Bronze | 20.2 g | 31 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian I (Marcus Antonius Gordianus Sempronianus Romanus Africanus) (238) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 238 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 20.2 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#280630 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, standing left, resting right hand on shield set on ground and holding spear in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVGG S C
Translation:
Virtus Augustorum. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperors (Augusti). Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 18.906–21.28 g;Diameter varies: 30–32 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Gordian I coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Virtus (Virtue) on the 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 coin's design was meant to promote the idea that the Roman Empire was a virtuous and powerful state, and it was a way for the ruling elite to communicate their values and ideals to the general population.
