Lot 4475
Diva Faustina Junior, wife of Marcus Aurelius, died AD 175/6. AE Sestertius (21.2g) minted at Rome. Struck under Aurelius. DIVA FAV - STINA PIA. Draped bust of Faustina Jr. right. Reverse: C - ONSE - [CR]ATIO S C. Ornamented and draped throne; a scepter across it; peacock below in display. Sear 5229; RIC 1704 (Aurelius); Cohen 74. Lovely uniform reddish-brown patina. Choice Very Fine.
The younger Faustina, wife of Marcus Aurelius, died in Cappadocia in AD 175. Despite her rumored infidelities, her memory was honored by the emperor, and she was immediately deified. This interesting sestertius type belongs to her posthumous coinage, which commenced in AD 176. The scepter resting against an empty throne is symbolic of the empress's passing, and the appearance of the peacock in the foreground equates her with Juno Regina (Queen Juno), consort of Jupiter.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
The Hunter Collection.
|
| |
| Realized $546 |
