It was rumored that Maximinus could drink sixty pints of wine and eat forty pounds of meat a day. The popular barbarian soldier was also reputed to be over eight feet tall and to have worn his wife's bracelet as a ring. The stories of his physical feats were even more astounding. He was an excellent warrior but a terrible statesman. He led his armies against the Germans but fought as a foot soldier, slaying enemy soldiers easily due to his immense size and strength. He ran the government in much the same way, often exiling or murdering senators who dared to oppose him. Maximinus' harsh policies angered the people of the empire and in the provinces. In A.D. 238, the citizens of North Africa rebelled against Maximinus' procurator, the financial officer in charge of taxes. They proclaimed an eighty-seven year old man by the name of Gordianus emperor and his son was made co-emperor with him. When news of the rebellion reached Maximinus, he decided to march on Rome. Already unpopular with the people, this move caused him to be disdained. While laying siege to the city of Aquileia, whose citizens stoutly resisted, Maximinus’ German troops became demoralized and decided to do away with him.
The glories of antiquity shine again with renewed brilliance and luster. The legend surrounding this figure becomes reality when wearing this pendant. The past literally comes alive. This ancient coin in not a relic of the past displayed behind glass in a museum; but mounted in this pendant, the coin is a stunning centerpiece appreciated for its age as much as its beauty and superior craftsmanship.