Numismatic

Roman Dbl Denarius Gordian III (238-244 AD) Ch VF NGC (Random)

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Struck in silver during the middle of the third century, this double denarius offers a direct connection to the tumultuous era of the Roman Empire. The obverse of the coin displays the right-facing profile of Emperor Gordian III, framed by the Latin inscription IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG. Depending on the specific issue, the reverse designs vary, often depicting personified figures such as Sol or Victory, or showing the emperor himself holding a military standard. Gordian III ascended to the imperial throne in 238 AD at the remarkably young age of fifteen. He was connected to previous rulers as the grandson of Gordian I and the nephew of Gordian II. Because of his youth, true administrative control rested in the hands of his Praetorian Prefects, first Timesitheus, whose daughter Tranquillina became the young emperor's wife, and later Philip the Arab. The reign of Gordian III ended abruptly with his death, an event that cleared the path for Philip I to claim the imperial title.