The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
Roman Empire – Gordian III (AD 238–244) – Antoninianus, NGC Certified
This silvered bronze antoninianus was struck during the reign of Gordian III, Rome’s youthful emperor who ascended the throne at just 13 years old, becoming one of the youngest rulers in imperial history.
Obverse: Radiate bust of Gordian III facing right, with Latin inscription proclaiming his name and imperial titles.
Reverse: Depictions vary, typically featuring a Roman deity, personification of imperial virtues, or a military emblem, underscored by Latin legend.
Technical Details: Silver-washed bronze (AR/AE) antoninianus; struck between AD 238–244; authenticated and certified by NGC.
Historical Significance:
Gordian III’s reign began in the Year of the Six Emperors (AD 238), a period of political turmoil that saw multiple short-lived rulers. Elevated by the Senate and the Praetorian Guard after the deaths of his predecessors, he reigned for six years—a remarkable span during the Crisis of the Third Century. Though only a teenager, Gordian presided over important military campaigns, particularly against Persia. His sudden death at age 19, possibly in battle or by assassination, cut short a reign that offered hope of stability amid decades of chaos.
This coin embodies the promise and fragility of Gordian III’s rule, capturing the portrait of a boy-emperor caught in the turbulence of Rome’s decline.
The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
Roman Empire – Gordian III (AD 238–244) – Antoninianus, NGC Certified
This silvered bronze antoninianus was struck during the reign of Gordian III, Rome’s youthful emperor who ascended the throne at just 13 years old, becoming one of the youngest rulers in imperial history.
Obverse: Radiate bust of Gordian III facing right, with Latin inscription proclaiming his name and imperial titles.
Reverse: Depictions vary, typically featuring a Roman deity, personification of imperial virtues, or a military emblem, underscored by Latin legend.
Technical Details: Silver-washed bronze (AR/AE) antoninianus; struck between AD 238–244; authenticated and certified by NGC.
Historical Significance:
Gordian III’s reign began in the Year of the Six Emperors (AD 238), a period of political turmoil that saw multiple short-lived rulers. Elevated by the Senate and the Praetorian Guard after the deaths of his predecessors, he reigned for six years—a remarkable span during the Crisis of the Third Century. Though only a teenager, Gordian presided over important military campaigns, particularly against Persia. His sudden death at age 19, possibly in battle or by assassination, cut short a reign that offered hope of stability amid decades of chaos.
This coin embodies the promise and fragility of Gordian III’s rule, capturing the portrait of a boy-emperor caught in the turbulence of Rome’s decline.
