My Second Roman Ae

Hello again, new friends. For my next ancient I wanted a female subject, preferably a historical figure as opposed to an allegory or a deity. Here is the result of that ebay excursion:

Faustina, AE 30 Sestertius 24g
Obverse: DIVA FAVSTINA, draped bust right, strings of pearl in hair, hair in elaborate bun
Reverse: AETERNITAS, Aeternitas seated left, Phoenix on globe in right, transverse scepter in left




The seller dated this piece to 138-141 AD but it was in fact struck after Faustina's death in 140. To honor the memory of his wife, Antoninus Pius ordered the minting of this and similar coins with the inscription 'Divine Faustina', in reference to her deification. It seems she was a benevolent empress who assisted charities and helped to educate the children of Rome, holding an especial fondness for girls. Notice that she appears to be gazing upward - perhaps toward a destination..

It has been quite rewarding researching and collecting these coins. With postage I paid about $50. Looking forward to more big bronzes.