Sestertius - Faustina the Younger AVGVSTI PII FIL S C, Venus and Victory
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 145-161 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 23.6 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC III#1367, OCRE#ric.3.ant.1367 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Faustina the Younger, draped, right, hair is elaborately dressed in horizontal lines with ringlets down front: it is coiled in a chignon on back of head. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
FAVSTINA AVGVSTA (Translation: Faustina Augusta. Faustina the venerable.) |
| Reverse description | Venus, standing left, holding Victory and leaning on shield, set on helmet. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
AVGVSTI PII FIL S C (Translation: Augusti Pii Filius. Senatus Consultum. Son of emperor (Augustus) [Antoninus] Pius. Decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (145-161) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1695240670 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This Sestertius, issued 145-161 AD, features Faustina the Younger, daughter of Antoninus Pius and wife of Marcus Aurelius. The inscription "AVGVSTI PII FIL" highlights her prestigious imperial lineage, reinforcing dynastic legitimacy during the Antonine era, a period of prosperity. As Augusta, her coinage promoted stability, fertility, and the continuity of the ruling house, crucial for the Antonine dynasty's succession.
Artistry: This coin exemplifies the refined High Imperial Roman artistic style of the Antonine period, characterized by idealized portraiture and classical influences. Imperial mint workshops produced detailed and elegant designs. The obverse likely presents a finely rendered, draped bust of Faustina. The reverse depicts Venus, goddess of love and fertility, associated with dynastic continuity, alongside Victory, symbolizing imperial triumph. This powerful combination celebrates the imperial family's success and prosperity.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (23.6 grams, 31 millimeters), Sestertii of this period often show variability in strike quality. Key high-points for evaluation include Faustina's coiffure and facial features on the obverse. On the reverse, sharpness of the figures' drapery, expressions, and attributes held by Venus and Victory are critical. A premium example would display a full, centered strike with minimal planchet flaws, strong relief, and complete legends, indicating a superior impression from the dies.