Gordian III fun engraver's goof - Non-radiate Sol on a denarius

Looks like there's a lot of Gordian III love around here, so I feel like I should share this one.

Gordian III Denarius
IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG, laureate bust right
AETERNITATI AVG (To the Immortal Emperor), Sol standing right, head left, with upraised hand and holding a globe.
RIC 111
http://www.wildwinds.com/coins/sear5/s8672.t.html



Compare against the same type as an antoninianus


I like to entertain the idea that the die engraver was a relative newbie, and had a post-it note at his work station: NO RADIATE CROWNS ON DENARII

I haven't been able to find a match for this little oddity on any auction archive database.

 

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Hah, I like this theory, humorous anachronism aside it seems like a rather logical explanation. Interesting piece.

 

Finn235, I'm confused, are you saying the bottom coin is a denarius instead of a double denarius (antoninianus)? What are the weights of both coins?

 

I think he's pointing out that Sol does not have a radiate crown on the reverse of the top coin.

 

Thanks gsimonel .

 

Nice Gordian Ant!!!