Sestertius - Gordian III (SECVRITAS PERPETVA S C; Securitas) (244) front Sestertius - Gordian III (SECVRITAS PERPETVA S C; Securitas) (244) back
Sestertius - Gordian III (SECVRITAS PERPETVA S C; Securitas) (244) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Gordian III SECVRITAS PERPETVA S C; Securitas

244 year
Bronze 20.1 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
20.1 g
Diameter
30 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#281181
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Securitas, draped, standing left with legs crossed, leaning left arm on column, and holding sceptre in right hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SECVRITAS PERPETVA S C

Unabridged legend: Securitas Perpetua. Senatus Consultum.

Translation: Perpetual security. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 16.37–26.682 g;
Diameter varies: 29–32.16 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 the Roman goddess Securitas on the reverse side, which represents the perpetual security and stability of the Roman Empire. The coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Gordian III, who ruled the Roman Empire from 238 to 244 AD. Despite being a bronze coin, it weighs 20.1 grams, which is relatively heavy compared to other coins of similar denominations. This suggests that the coin may have been minted using a higher quality bronze alloy or with a higher level of craftsmanship, reflecting the prosperity and prestige of the Roman Empire during that time.