Quote:
I am thinking the Gordian is as follows:
Pretty much, yes, but there is a slight difference to your coin:
Your coin is 'P M TR P
IIII COS II P P' whereas the one you linnked to is 'P M TR P
VI COS II P P'.
These numbers relate to Gordians powers and length of service in various offices, your coin is 4 and the one you linked to is 6 so was made later.
Here is a breakdown of your reverse legend -
P M TR P IIII COS II P P:
Pontifex
Maximus - greatest priest (i.e. the supreme head of the roman religion. Title often held by the (most senior) ruler. If there was more than one ruler then the others were simply PONTIFEX. In disuse after the empire became Christian)
Tribunicia
Potestas - Tribune of the plebs, frequently followed by a numeral (on your coin 4) to denote term, refers to the right to convene an assembly of the plebs, also gave the power to veto the senate. It made the Emperor civil head of the state. Usually awarded annually.
CONsul - Annually renewable job, In your case, 2 terms.
Pater
Patriae - Father of his country.
Here is an exact match for your coin:
http://www.wildwinds.com/coins/sear5/s8646.htmlQuote:
Overall it really makes you put things into perspective when your holding something that was made 241 years AD
Your right, it does put things in perspective - glad your hooked
