Numismatic

Roman Double Denarius Gordian III NGC AU (238-244 AD, Vault)

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This silver double denarius, struck between the years 238 and 244 AD, offers a tangible connection to the turbulent third century of the Roman Empire. Weighing 3.63 grams with a diameter of about 22 millimeters, this ancient coin has survived the centuries in a well-preserved state, certified as Almost Uncirculated. The front of the coin displays a right-facing portrait of the young Emperor Gordian III. He assumed the throne at the close of 238 AD as a teenager, succeeding his grandfather Gordian I and his uncle Gordian II. The surrounding Latin inscription reads IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG. While Gordian III held the title of emperor, actual administrative control during his brief reign was wielded by his Praetorian Prefects, Philip the Arab and Timesitheus. The young ruler married Tranquillina before his life was cut short, after which Philip the Arab claimed the imperial throne. On the reverse, the coin depicts the standing figure of Sol, the Roman sun deity, accompanied by the inscription LIBERTAS AVG SC. This ancient silver piece serves as a fascinating artifact from a period of shifting power and economic transition in Rome.