Thrace. Hadrianopolis. Gordian III AD 238-244.
Bronze Æ

27 mm, 10,35 g

AYT K M ANT ΓOΡΔIANOC AV, laureate and draped bust right / AΔΡIAN-O-Π-OΛEI-TΩN, tetrastyle temple with peaked roof and four steps up to statue of Tyche standing within, holding rudder in right and cornucopiae in left hand.

Very Fine

Mionnet 789; SNG Cop. 590; BMC 41.

Gordian III was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 238 to 244. He was born in AD 225 and became emperor at a young age after the death of his grandfather, Gordian I, and his father, Gordian II, during a revolt against the emperor Maximinus Thrax. As emperor, Gordian III was initially under the influence of his mother and advisors, but he eventually gained more independence as he matured. He was known for his handsome and youthful appearance, which earned him popularity among the Roman people. During his reign, Gordian III faced military conflicts, including campaigns against the Persians and Germanic tribes. His military commander, Timesitheus, played a crucial role in managing these campaigns and preserving the stability of the empire. However, in AD 244, Gordian III's reign came to an abrupt end when he died under suspicious circumstances while on a campaign in the East. His death marked the rise of Philip the Arab as the next Roman emperor.