Roman Provincial, Gordian III and Abgar X Phraates, Æ23

Obverse: Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gordian III right; star to right.

Reverse: Crowned and draped bust of Abgar right; star to left.

Diameter: ± 23 mm

Weight: ± 8,46 g

Reference: BMC 144.

VF, bold portraits

Gordian III was a Roman Emperor who ascended to the throne at a young age, around 13 or 14, following the death of his grandfather, Gordian II, and the political turmoil of the time. His reign was marked by efforts to stabilize the Roman Empire and military campaigns, especially against the Sassanid Empire in the East. Abgar X was a king of Osroene, a client state of the Roman Empire and often served as a buffer zone. Abgar X was known for his diplomatic relations with Rome, and his reign was characterized by a degree of autonomy and local leadership, a ruler who maintained a friendly relationship with Rome.