Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 241-244 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Sestertius (1/8) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 19.2 g |
| Diameter | 29.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC IV.3#297A, OCRE#ric.4.gor_iii.297A |
| Obverse description | Bust of Gordian III, laureate, draped, cuirassed, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG (Translation: Imperator Gordianus Pius Felix Augustus. Supreme commander (Imperator), Gordian, the pious emperor (Augustus).) |
| Reverse description | Sol, nude except for cloak around shoulders, standing front, head left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
AETERNITATI AVG S C (Translation: Aeternitati Augusti. Senatus Consultum. [Dedicated to] the immortal emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (241-244) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1006948590 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Sestertius, struck between 241 and 244 AD, originates from the reign of Emperor Gordian III. Ascending to the throne at a young age amidst the turbulent Crisis of the Third Century, Gordian’s early years, particularly under the guidance of his praetorian prefect Timesitheus, brought a period of relative stability. The reverse legend, AETERNITATI AVG, a dedication to the eternity of the emperor, served as a potent propaganda message, expressing a desire for longevity and stability for the youthful ruler and the Roman state during a precarious era.
Artistry: While individual engravers remain anonymous, this coin exemplifies the stylistic trends of the mid-3rd century Roman imperial mints, particularly Rome. The artistic school of this period often features a robust, somewhat expressionistic rendering of the imperial portrait, emphasizing the emperor's authority. The reverse depicts Aeternitas, the personification of Eternity, often shown holding a globe or phoenix, symbolizing the enduring nature of the emperor's rule and the Roman Empire itself. The design conveys a message of imperial permanence and divine sanction.
Technical/Grading: As a large bronze denomination, Sestertii from this period frequently exhibit variations in strike quality. High-points for the obverse portrait would include the hair, nose, and chin. On the reverse, the head of Aeternitas and prominent drapery folds are key. Collectors should look for a well-centered strike, especially on the reverse, where details like the S C can be soft or partially off-flan. Flan integrity, including the absence of significant laminations or cracks, is also important for higher grades, as is the evenness of patination.