© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Gordian III PAX AVGVSTI S C; Pax
| Bronze | 20.6 g | 31 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 238-239 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 20.6 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#281018 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Pax, draped, standing front, head left, holding branch in extended right hand and sceptre in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: PAX AVGVSTI S C
Translation:
Pax Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Peace provided by the Emperor. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 16.027–23.06 g;Diameter varies: 22.7–34 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 Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, on the reverse side. This is significant because Gordian III's reign was marked by a series of military campaigns and conflicts, including a war against the Sassanid Empire. Despite this, the coinage of his reign, like this Sestertius, emphasized themes of peace and prosperity, highlighting the Roman Empire's aspirations for a return to a more peaceful era.
