© Evan Saltis
© Evan Saltis
Tetradrachm - Gordian III Alexandria
| Billon | 11.7 g | 23 mm |
| Issuer | Alexandria (Egypt) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gordian III (Marcus Antonius Gordianus) (238-244) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 239-240 |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 11.7 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#185053 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Eagle standing left, head to the right, holding wreath in beak.
Script: Greek
Lettering: L - Γ
Comment
Geissen 2633; Dattari-Savio 4807; Kampmann-Ganschow 72.49; BMC Alexandria p. 247, 1907; Emmett 3401.3Interesting fact
The Tetradrachm coin from Alexandria (Egypt) made of Billon and weighing 11.7g was minted during the reign of Gordian III (239-240 AD). It features an image of the Roman Emperor on one side and the goddess Tyche on the other. This coin was used as a standard circulation coin in the Roman Empire and was valued at four drachmas, which was a significant amount at that time. It's interesting to note that the coin was made of Billon, which is an alloy of silver and base metals, indicating that the Roman Empire was experiencing economic difficulties during this time and had to resort to using cheaper materials for their currency. Additionally, the fact that the coin features the image of a Roman Emperor and a goddess suggests that the Roman Empire was still heavily influenced by Greek culture and mythology at that time.
