Gordian II, 238. Sestertius (Orichalcum, 30 mm, 18.63 g, 12 h), Rome, March-April 238. IMP CAES M ANT GORDIANVS AFR AVG Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Gordian II to right, seen from behind. Rev. ROMAE AETERNAE / S C Roma seated left on throne, holding Victory in her right hand and long scepter in her left; at her side, shield. BMC 23. Cohen 9. RIC 5. A beautiful coin with an attractive olive green patina and a fine portrait. Very light doubling, otherwise, good very fine.



In March 238, the 80-year-old Gordian I and his son, Gordian II, led a revolt in Africa Proconsularis against the unpopular emperor, Maximinus I. Although they were recognized as new Augusti by both the Senate, which feared and hated Maximinus, and by large segments of the civilian population, Capelianus, the governor of Numidia loyal to the emperor, opposed the rebellion with his superior forces and defeated the insurrectionists in a battle near Carthage. Gordian II was killed in the battle, and his father, Gordian I, took his own life by falling on his sword. With a reign reportedly lasting only 22 days, their rule is among the shortest in Roman history.