Tetrassarion - Gordian III ΚΑϹΑΤΩΝ, Casae

Historical Context: This Orichalcum tetrassarion from Casae, struck during Gordian III’s reign (238-244 CE), reflects the interplay between imperial authority and provincial autonomy in Roman Cilicia. Gordian III, a youthful emperor amidst the tumultuous Crisis of the Third Century, relied on provincial loyalty. Casae (ΚΑϹΑΤΩΝ), a Cilician city, issued substantial bronze coinage, attesting to its economic vitality and local administration's prerogative to maintain a currency system. This tetrassarion signifies a significant regional denomination.

Artistry: The artistic execution aligns with broader stylistic trends of Roman provincial mints in Asia Minor during the mid-third century CE. While individual engraver signatures are unknown for Casae, the obverse portrait of Gordian III typically adheres to official Roman prototypes, though with local interpretation. The reverse, though unspecified, would depict a local deity, civic personification, or landmark, rendered in a Hellenistic-influenced idiom characteristic of Cilician coinage. The style, often less refined than metropolitan issues, possesses distinct regional vigor.

Technical/Grading: For this substantial Orichalcum issue (13.44 gg, 32 mm), critical grading points include strike centering and strength. A well-centered obverse with a full, sharp portrait of Gordian III and complete imperial titulature is paramount. On the reverse, clarity of the local legend ΚΑϹΑΤΩΝ and specific iconography is crucial. Surface preservation, including an even, original patina free from aggressive cleaning, pitting, or significant flan defects, affects desirability. Weak strikes, especially on the periphery, and minor off-centering are common detractions.