© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Gordian III MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM S C; Mars
244 year| Bronze | 19.6 g | 30 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 244 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 19.6 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#281176 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, in military attire, hastening right, holding transverse spear in right hand and shield in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM S C
Translation:
Martem Propugnatorem. Senatus Consultum.
Of Mars, the defender. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 14.2–24.55 g;Diameter varies: 26–33.5 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius - Gordian III coin features an image of Mars, the Roman god of war, on its reverse side. This is significant because Gordian III, who ruled the Roman Empire from 238 to 244 AD, was known for his military campaigns against the Persians and his efforts to defend the empire's borders. The inclusion of Mars on the coin may have been a way to emphasize Gordian III's military prowess and his role as a defender of the empire.
