Sestertius - Gordian III (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (244) front Sestertius - Gordian III (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (244) back
Sestertius - Gordian III (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (244) photo
© The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Sestertius - Gordian III PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia

244 year
Bronze 18.4 g 30 mm
Description
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
18.4 g
Diameter
30 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#281177
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Providentia, draped, standing left, holding wand in right hand over globe set on ground and sceptre in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PROVIDENTIA AVG S C

Translation:
Providentia Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Providence of the emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 17.19–19.52 g;

Example of this type:
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Providentia, the Roman goddess of foresight and forward planning, on its reverse side. This suggests that the coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was placing a strong emphasis on planning and preparation for the future.