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238-244AD Moesia Marcianopolis Gordian III & Tranquillina Æ26 – VF

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Provincial issue struck in city of Roman Marcianopolis in Moesia Inferior.

Depicting confronted busts of Gordian III and Tranquillina, the reverse showing Athena holding shield resting on ground and spear

Graded as Very Fine, with greenish/brown patina, an interesting type!

SKU: 12786 Category: Tags: , , ,

Description

Denomination:Æ28

Composition:Æ

Date:Struck 241-244 AD

Obverse:ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΑΝΤ ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟϹ ΑΥΓ ϹΕ(Β) ΤΡΑΝΚΥΛΛΕΙΝΑ, confronted busts of Gordian III, laureate, draped and cuirassed, right, seen from rear, and Tranquillina, diademed and draped, left

Reverse:ΥΠ ΤΕΡΤΥΛΛΙΑΝΟΥ ΜΑΡΚΙΑΝΟΠΟΛΙΤΩ(Ν), Athena standing left, holding shield resting on ground and spear Ε in left field T over M in right

Diameter, Weight & Orientation:11.3g, 26mm, 12h

Grade:Very Fine, even brown patina

Provenance:Ex Private Sydney Collection

References:RPC VII 1437 online

Gordian III: Rome’s Teenage Emperor

Birth and Family

Marcus Antonius Gordianus, known as Gordian III, was born in 225 CE, most likely in Rome. His father, also named Gordianus, died early, while his mother, Antonia Gordiana, came from a respected senatorial family. From childhood, he stood close to imperial politics. Consequently, when chaos rattled Rome, opportunity knocked—loudly.

Rise to Power

In 238 CE, the empire spiralled through what historians call the “Year of Six Emperors.” Firstly, rivals fell in quick succession. Then, the Praetorian Guard and Senate backed young Gordian as a compromise candidate. Therefore, at just 13 years old, he gained the purple. However, advisers ran the show at first. Meanwhile, Gordian learned the ropes, projecting unity while generals handled swords.

Tranquillina: The Empress Beside Him

Background and Family

Furia Sabinia Tranquillina came from influence rather than accident. Her father, Timesitheus, served as Praetorian Prefect and sharp strategist. As a result, she entered court life with political advantage. Moreover, her family’s strength steadied Gordian’s position.

Marriage and Partnership

In 241 CE, Gordian married Tranquillina, and immediately the alliance boosted stability. Therefore, Timesitheus gained greater authority, while Gordian gained credibility. Meanwhile, coins displayed Tranquillina’s image, signalling harmony. Together, the young couple represented hope during unrest. Although their reign stayed short, they embodied a rare moment when marriage doubled as statecraft—and actually worked.

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