Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Sale 38 29 Jul 2017
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Gordian I Africanus AR Denarius. Rome, March - April AD 238. IMP M ANT GORDIANVS AFR AVG, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind / ROMAE AETERNAE, Roma seated left on shield, holding Victory and leaning on sceptre. RIC 4 (R2); Cohen 8. 3.11g, 20mm, 11h.
Very Fine. Very Rare.
Gordian's long and distinguished career included the command of Legio IIII Scythica, the governorship of Britain in 216 AD, and he was Suffect Consul some time during the reign of Elagabalus. As an aedile, he had gained great popularity for the magnificence of the games and shows he produced for the people, however his prudence in remaining far from intrigue allowed him to escape the attention of jealous and paranoid emperors. During his term as governor of Africa Proconsularis, a revolt broke out against the oppressive rule of Maximinus Thrax, and the people turned to Gordian, demanding that he take the imperial throne. Despite his advanced years and claiming he was too old to rule, Gordian eventually acceded to their demands. Because of his age, he insisted that his son (Gordian II) be co-emperor with him. Gordian sent a delegation to the Senate, who confirmed him as emperor. However, Capelianus, governor of Numidia, a loyal supporter of Maximinus, invaded the province of Africa at the head of the only legion in the area and defeated Gordian II's militia army. Upon hearing of the death of his son, Gordian took his own life, but was survived by his grandson who would eventually rule as Gordian III.
Very Fine. Very Rare.
Gordian's long and distinguished career included the command of Legio IIII Scythica, the governorship of Britain in 216 AD, and he was Suffect Consul some time during the reign of Elagabalus. As an aedile, he had gained great popularity for the magnificence of the games and shows he produced for the people, however his prudence in remaining far from intrigue allowed him to escape the attention of jealous and paranoid emperors. During his term as governor of Africa Proconsularis, a revolt broke out against the oppressive rule of Maximinus Thrax, and the people turned to Gordian, demanding that he take the imperial throne. Despite his advanced years and claiming he was too old to rule, Gordian eventually acceded to their demands. Because of his age, he insisted that his son (Gordian II) be co-emperor with him. Gordian sent a delegation to the Senate, who confirmed him as emperor. However, Capelianus, governor of Numidia, a loyal supporter of Maximinus, invaded the province of Africa at the head of the only legion in the area and defeated Gordian II's militia army. Upon hearing of the death of his son, Gordian took his own life, but was survived by his grandson who would eventually rule as Gordian III.