Rome Maximus Caesar 235-238AD Sesterius gFine

This Roman bronze sestertius of Maximus Caesar, dating from AD 235–238, offers a fascinating glimpse into the turbulent era of the Crisis of the Third Century. Maximus, the son and heir of Emperor Maximinus I Thrax, was elevated to the rank of Caesar and presented as the future of the imperial dynasty, though his time in power would be brief and ultimately end in tragedy during the upheaval of AD 238.

The obverse features the portrait of the young prince, while the reverse depicts a collection of sacred priestly implements — the lituus, secespita, patera, guttus, simpulum, and aspergillum — symbols associated with Roman religious rituals and the emperor’s role as chief religious authority. These objects emphasised the connection between the imperial family and Rome’s ancient religious traditions.

Although Maximus Caesar never became emperor, this substantial bronze coin preserves the memory of a short-lived heir and a pivotal moment in Roman history.