290, Lot: 425. Estimate $300. Sold for $650. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Gordian I. AD 238. Æ Sestertius (32mm, 23.94 g, 11h). Rome mint. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Victory advancing left, holding wreath and palm frond. RIC IV 12; Banti 8. Good Fine, brown patina, rough surfaces. Rare.

From the R. D. Frederick Collection.

Marcus Antonius Gordianus, Proconsul of Africa, was nearing the end of a distinguished life and career when he was petitioned by the gentry of his province to declare himself emperor. Even though 80 years old at the time, he accepted and then raised his son to co-emperor. The news was warmly received by a Senate tired and fearful of Maximinus’ hatred of all things senatorial. However, only weeks afterward both Gordiani were dead. The younger was killed in battle against Capellianus, Governor of Mauretania; the elder, hearing of his son's death, committed suicide.