Faustina Coins
Faustina coins recognize two accomplished empresses of Rome. A niece of Emperor Hadrian, Faustina the Elder married Antoninus Pius and was elevated to Augusta, co-ruling with him. At her death, her loving husband declared her deified and built a temple in her honor. Her daughter Faustina the Younger married her cousin Marcus Aurelius. Historians note that both women were accused of being frivilous and maritally unfaithful during their lifetimes, although there appears to be little basis in fact.
Faustina coins display the elaborate artistry of which money-coiners were capable. Still-visible details show intricately braided hair and even jewelry. Coins are often backed with homage to Roman goddesses, Aeternites (eternity) and Ceres (the goddess of growth and harvest) in the case of Faustina the Elder. Faustina the Younger's coins reflect her devotion to Venus and Concordia. A temple to the deified Faustina the Younger was erected in Halala in Asia Minor, where she died.
US $17.37
