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Bronze As - Æ 25 mm - 12 grams - Die axis 11:00 - RIC 1178 - Struck after AD 140. |
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1. |
DIVA - FAVSTINA (Diva Faustina - Deified Faustina).
Bust of draped and diademed empress with cropped hair facing right, rather elongated face.
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2. |
AVG[-V-STA (Augusta - Empress).
Vesta, in Stola, standing facing full front, head facing left. Holding the Palladium in her right hand and a long torch with her left. SC (Senatus Consulto – By decree of the Senate) at the sides of Goddess' legs. |
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Annia Galeria Faustina married Antoninus between 110-115 A.D. in 138 he became Emperor, and
the Senate honored her with the title of Augusta. Unfortunately, Faustina died in 141. She
was deified, complete with a temple and priestesses. Antoninus set up a program in her memory
that made loans to Italian farmers, with the interest set aside to care for orphaned girls.
Pius survived her by many years, issuing many coins honoring her memory. He did not re-marry.
Minted in Rome.
Obv. : Worn - Rev. : Worn. |
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