Sestertius - Gordian III (IOVI STATORI S C; Jupiter) (241-244) front Sestertius - Gordian III (IOVI STATORI S C; Jupiter) (241-244) back
Sestertius - Gordian III (IOVI STATORI S C; Jupiter) (241-244) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Gordian III IOVI STATORI S C; Jupiter

 
Bronze 18.3 g 27.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
241-244
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
18.3 g
Diameter
27.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#281108
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

Jupiter, nude, standing front, head left, holding long sceptre in right hand and thunderbolt in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IOVI STATORI S C

Translation:
Iovi Statoris. Senatus Consultum.
To Jupiter, the upholder (preserver). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 13.475–21.31 g;
Diameter varies: 18.4–33 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Jupiter, the Roman god of thunder and lightning, on one side, and an image of Gordian III, the Roman emperor, on the other side. This coin was minted during Gordian III's reign, which lasted from 241 to 244 AD, and it was used as a standard circulation coin throughout the Roman Empire. The fact that it features both a powerful deity and a prominent emperor makes it a unique and interesting artifact from ancient Rome.