Hexassarion - Gordian III ΟΛΥΜΠΗΝωΝ
| Issuer | Olympus |
|---|---|
| Year | 238-244 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Hexassarion (0.6) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 21.46 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | VII.2#2361 Aulock#Lykien 190 |
| Obverse description | Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Gordian III, right, seen from front. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering |
ΑΥ Κ ΜΑΡ ΑΝΤ ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟϹ ϹΕΒ (Translation: Emperor Caesar Marcus Antonius Gordianus Augustus) |
| Reverse description | Hephaestus seated right, on rock, in front of anvil behind which tongs, holding hammer and shield. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΟΛΥΜΠΗΝωΝ (Translation: [Coin] of the Olympians) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (238-244) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1668494360 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This Hexassarion, issued by Olympus in Lycia, dates to Emperor Gordian III's reign (238-244 AD). Gordian III brought relative stability after the tumultuous Year of the Six Emperors. Provincial mints like Olympus struck bronze coinage for local economic needs, affirming imperial authority while blending imperial portraits with local iconography. The inscription ΟΛΥΜΠΗΝωΝ explicitly identifies Olympus, a significant Lycian League port, as the issuing city.
Artistry: The engraver, typical for provincial mints, remains anonymous. Stylistically, the coin displays provincial Roman characteristics, blending imperial portraiture with localized interpretation. While lacking metropolitan Roman precision, provincial artistry often conveyed a robust, direct aesthetic. The obverse features Gordian III's portrait. The reverse, though unspecified, would likely depict a local deity, mythological scene, or civic emblem pertinent to Olympus, reflecting its unique cultural identity.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this substantial coin measures 31 mm and weighs 21.46 grams, indicative of a significant provincial denomination. Key high-points for assessing wear or strike quality include the emperor's hair and facial features on the obverse. On the reverse, the highest relief elements of the specific design are crucial. Provincial strikes often display varying die alignment and flan preparation. These, along with potential die wear, are critical factors in evaluating this Hexassarion's technical quality and grade.