Numismatic

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

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Struck in the heart of the third century, this silver double denarius transports us to a period of intense political instability in the Roman Empire. The coin dates from the reign of Emperor Gordian III, who came to power in 238 AD. Remarkably, he was only about 15 years old when he ascended the throne, navigating a volatile era where true authority was often held by powerful Praetorian Prefects like Timisitheus and Philip the Arab. The young emperor's reign came to a sudden end when he was killed, paving the way for Philip I to take the throne. Measuring approximately 18 mm in diameter, this silver piece is a tangible remnant of that dramatic era. The obverse features the bust of the youthful Emperor Gordian III, while the reverse displays various traditional motifs. These reverse designs typically depict Roman deities, goddesses, or personifications of virtues and ideals, which served as powerful propaganda to project stability and strength across a fractured empire. This specific specimen survives in Choice Very Fine condition, offering a remarkably clear window into ancient Roman history.