Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 141 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24.6 g |
| Diameter | 30.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC III#1120, OCRE#ric.3.ant.1120 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Faustina I, draped, right, hair elaborately waved and coiled in bands across head and drawn up at back and piled in a round coil on top. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
DIVA FAVSTINA (Translation: Diva Faustina. The divine Faustina [the Elder].) |
| Reverse description | Ceres, veiled, draped, standing left, holding up short torch in each hand. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
AVGVSTA S C (Translation: Augusta. Senatus Consultum. Empress by decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (141) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1014461070 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Struck in 141 AD, this Sestertius commemorates Faustina the Elder, wife of Emperor Antoninus Pius, following her death. Her swift deification as Diva Augusta was a crucial political act, solidifying the imperial family's divine mandate and the emperor's piety. This Antonine period marked a pinnacle of Roman stability and prosperity, the Pax Romana. The substantial bronze coin, authorized by the Senate (S C), reinforced the imperial cult and projected continuity and divine favor across the Roman Empire.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the high classical style prevalent during the Antonine era, characterized by refined portraiture and idealized features. The obverse typically presents a draped bust of Faustina, rendered with a serene expression reflecting her deified status. The reverse features Ceres, goddess of agriculture and fertility, often holding torches or ears of corn. This iconography subtly links the empress's memory to the empire's prosperity, emphasizing her nurturing role and the abundance associated with the imperial house. Skilled die-engraving from the imperial mint is evident.
Technical/Grading: As a Sestertius, a large bronze denomination, strike quality can vary. Key high-points for grading include Faustina's coiffure and facial features on the obverse, and Ceres's drapery, facial expression, and attributes on the reverse. A premium example would exhibit a full, sharp strike with minimal die wear, good centering, and a sound flan, free from significant porosity or laminations. The specified weight of 24.6 grams and diameter of 30.5 millimeters are consistent with well-produced issues, indicating a substantial and well-proportioned coin.