Roman Empire, Faustina Senior, Wife of Antoninus Pius (AD138-161) AV Aureus, (19mm, 7.16gm) NGC

Description

Roman Empire, Faustina Senior AV Aureus

Type: AV Aureus
Date: AD 138-161
Dimensions: 19mm
Weight: 7.16 g
Catalog References: Cohen 95; RIC 356a; Calicó 1763b
Condition: NGC Choice Very Fine

Obverse:

• Design: Draped bust of Diva Faustina, right. Her hair is waved and coiled on top of her head, reflecting the elaborate hairstyles of Roman empresses.
• Legend: DIVA FAVSTINA

Reverse:

• Design: Ceres standing facing, head turned left. She holds a lighted torch in her right hand and a short vertical scepter in her left. Ceres, the goddess of agriculture and fertility, is depicted in a stance symbolizing her nurturing role.
• Legend: AVGVSTA

Condition:

• Surface: Choice Very Fine with a well-struck design and clear legends.
• Strike: Excellent detail and luster, with typical light wear for the grade.

Historical Context:

Faustina Senior (AD 138-161): Faustina the Elder was the wife of Emperor Antoninus Pius and mother of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. After her death, she was deified and honored with this aureus, a type of gold coin issued to commemorate deceased emperors and their families.

Ceres: The goddess depicted on the reverse represents fertility and agricultural abundance. Her portrayal with a torch and scepter reflects her role in ensuring the prosperity of the Roman Empire.

The aureus of Faustina Senior exemplifies the high quality of Roman imperial coinage and provides insight into the honors bestowed upon important figures in Roman history.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.