A large bronze sestertius struck in Nikopolis ad Istrum, a Roman provincial city in Moesia Inferior, during the reign of Emperor Gordian III (AD 238–244). The obverse shows the youthful emperor radiate, draped, and cuirassed, facing right. The reverse depicts an eagle standing proudly on a thunderbolt, a wreath in its beak—a potent emblem of military might and divine favor. The coin bears the name of the local magistrate, Sabinius Modestus, and is distinguished by a rich jade-green patina from centuries of burial. Now hand-set in sterling silver, this commanding pendant bridges imperial Rome, provincial identity, and enduring craftsmanship.
The History
Founded by Emperor Trajan in the early second century AD, Nikopolis ad Istrum flourished as a key provincial city in Moesia Inferior, near the Danube frontier. By the time of Gordian III, provincial mints such as Nikopolis issued large bronzes bearing both imperial and local themes. The eagle on the thunderbolt symbolized Rome’s military dominance and divine sanction, while the wreath it holds alludes to victory. Provincial coins like this bridged the world of Rome’s emperors and the civic pride of local communities. Today, this coin survives as a vivid reminder of life at the empire’s edge—and of the young emperor whose reign was cut short at just 19 years old.
Coin Details
Origin: Nikopolis ad Istrum, Moesia Inferior
Date: AD 238–244
Emperor: Gordian III
Magistrate: Sabinius Modestus
Obverse: Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gordian III right; legend AYT K M ANT ΓOΡΔIANOC AVΓ
Reverse: Eagle on thunderbolt, wreath in beak; legend VΠ CAB MOΔECTOV NIKOΠOΛEITΩN ΠΡOC ICTΡON
Material: Bronze (AE)
Provenance: Acquired from one of Britain’s premier ancient coin dealers
What’s Included
Sterling silver chain included, with 14k gold upgrades available at checkout (message us for 18k chain options)
Certificate of authenticity and historical background
Elegant presentation box for gifting or safekeeping
Free insured U.S. shipping; international shipping available
The Peregrine Collection
The Peregrine Collection represents the finest of our offerings—rare or historically significant coins, each set in a fully hand-forged 18k gold bezel and paired with a dainty 14k gold chain. Every bezel is shaped, hammered, and polished entirely by hand to follow the natural contours of the ancient coin, ensuring both secure preservation and refined presentation. No two settings are ever alike, making each pendant a singular work of wearable history.
Eagle of Nikopolis | in Silver
Sterling Silver
$550.00
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FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes — all coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
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Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
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What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us — we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
