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

Uitgever Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Jaar 145-161
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1 Denarius
Valuta Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Samenstelling Silver
Gewicht 3.3 g
Diameter 17.5 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) RIC III#495A, OCRE#ric.3.ant.495A
Beschrijving voorzijde Bust of Faustina the Younger, bare-headed, with hair waived and coiled on back of head, draped, right.
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde FAVSTINA AVGVSTA
(Translation: Faustina Augusta. Faustina the venerable.)
Beschrijving keerzijde Venus, draped. standing left, holding Victory on right hand and resting left on round shield set on helmet on ground.
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde AVGVSTI PII FIL
(Translation: Augusti Pii Filius Son of emperor (Augustus) [Antoninus] Pius.)
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (145-161) - -
Numisquare-ID 1096670420
Aanvullende informatie

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.

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