Silver Coin of Gordian III with Ancient Suspension Hole — Worn by Roman Legionaries Roman Empire, 3rd century AD A striking silver coin of Emperor Gordian III, remarkable not only for its historical presence but also for its authentic ancient suspension hole, made in antiquity. Such coins were worn on a leather cord around the neck — a practice common among Roman soldiers, especially legionaries, who carried them as symbols of loyalty, protection, and personal fortune. GORDIAN III, Marcus Antonius (born January 20, 225, in Rome — died February 11, 244, near Circesium) was Roman emperor from July–August 238 AD. He was the son of Gordian II and the grandson of Gordian I. After the murder of Maximinus and the brief reign of the emperors Pupienus and Balbinus, he was proclaimed emperor by the Praetorian Guard. Following frontier conflicts along the Danube in 242–244 AD, Gordian III led the campaign against the Persians in Syria and Mesopotamia and died on the Euphrates. Obverse: Radiate bust of Gordian III, draped and cuirassed, facing right. Legend: IMP CAES M ANT GORDIANVS AVG Reverse: Virtus, helmeted and in military dress, standing front, head left, holding a branch in the right hand and a spear in the left; shield resting at her side. Legend: VIRTVS AVG Specifications: • Material: Silver • Weight: 3.2 g • Diameter: 19–22.5 mm • Condition: Satisfactory, with clear details • Suspension hole: Ancient, made in Roman times • Additional: Supplied with a leather cord • Origin: Roman Empire, 3rd century AD Shipping: EU only This coin was not merely money. It was a personal object of power. The figure of Virtus on the reverse embodied courage, military honor, and strength — virtues every Roman soldier aspired to. Coins like this were often pierced deliberately and worn close to the body, believed to bring protection in battle and favor from the gods. One can imagine this silver piece resting on the chest of a legionary, clinking softly against armor as he marched across the provinces of the Empire. Today, it survives as a direct witness to Roman military life, untouched by modern alteration. A rare and evocative artifact — highly desirable for collectors of Roman coins, military history, and wearable antiquities.