Denarius - Faustina the Younger AVGVSTI PII FIL, Venus and Victory

Emisor Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Año 145-161
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 1 Denarius
Moneda Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composición Silver
Peso 3.3 g
Diámetro 17.5 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Variable alignment ↺
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) RIC III#495A, OCRE#ric.3.ant.495A
Descripción del anverso Bust of Faustina the Younger, bare-headed, with hair waived and coiled on back of head, draped, right.
Escritura del anverso Latin
Leyenda del anverso FAVSTINA AVGVSTA
(Translation: Faustina Augusta. Faustina the venerable.)
Descripción del reverso Venus, draped. standing left, holding Victory on right hand and resting left on round shield set on helmet on ground.
Escritura del reverso Latin
Leyenda del reverso AVGVSTI PII FIL
(Translation: Augusti Pii Filius Son of emperor (Augustus) [Antoninus] Pius.)
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (145-161) - -
ID de Numisquare 1096670420
Información adicional

Historical Context: Struck 145-161 AD, this Denarius places Faustina the Younger in the Antonine Dynasty's Pax Romana. As "AVGVSTI PII FIL" (daughter of Antoninus Pius) and wife of Marcus Aurelius, her coinage reinforced dynastic legitimacy. The reverse, depicting Venus and Victory, likely symbolized the imperial family's prosperity, divine favor, and successful reign. This issue dates to her early Augusta tenure, solidifying her public image and role during stability.

Artistry: This Denarius exemplifies the refined classical style of Roman Imperial mints during the Antonine period. Engravers remain anonymous, but the artistic school produced idealized yet recognizable imperial portraits, often with intricate coiffures. The obverse would display a dignified effigy of Faustina. On the reverse, Venus and Victory would be rendered with grace, detailed drapery, and harmonious composition, reflecting the high standards of Roman numismatic art from the mid-2nd century AD.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, key high-points on the obverse include the sharpness of Faustina's elaborate hairstyle, facial features, and the clarity of "FAVSTINA AVGUSTI PII FIL." On the reverse, critical details are the distinctness of Venus's drapery, attributes, and discernible facial features, along with Victory's wings, wreath, and posture. A strong, well-centered strike and complete legends are paramount. Absence of significant flan flaws and minimal wear on high relief points contribute to a premium grade.

×