Pentassarion - Gordianus III ΔΙΟΝΥCΟΠΟΛEΙΤΩΝ, Demeter, Dionysopolis

Historical Context: This Pentassarion was struck during Gordianus III's reign (238-244 AD), a period within the tumultuous Crisis of the Third Century. Issued by Dionysopolis in Moesia Inferior, this provincial bronze reflects the city's right to mint local currency, serving local economic needs. Such issues reinforced imperial authority through the emperor's portrait while simultaneously showcasing local religious cults and civic identity. The "Pentassarion" denomination indicates a value of five assaria.

Artistry: The coin’s design exemplifies the provincial artistic style prevalent in Moesia Inferior. While the engraver remains anonymous, their work reflects a robust aesthetic. The obverse features a laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gordianus III, rendered with characteristic imperial iconography. The reverse powerfully depicts Demeter, holding grain ears, alongside Dionysus, with his thyrsus. This pairing of agricultural and viticultural deities underscores the region's fertility and the importance of these cults to Dionysopolis's prosperity and civic identity.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial bronze flan (12.32 gg, 27 mm), this piece demonstrates typical manufacturing for the period. High-points for wear include the emperor's laureate wreath, Demeter's grain ears, and Dionysus's thyrsus. Provincial bronzes frequently exhibit variable strike quality, often presenting minor off-centering, uneven flans, or areas of weakness, particularly on the periphery or finer drapery details. These are common characteristics to assess when grading such issues.