AR Sestertius of Antoninus Pius
money; coins (money)
Emperor Antoninus Pius issued this coin to commemorate his late and deified wife Faustina (the Elder), renowned for her beauty and wisdom, who passed in 140 CE. The front side of this coin is the draped bust of Roman Empress Diva Faustina, who wore her hair in a distinctive braided french twist. The back depicts Aeternitas, a Roman goddess who is the divine personification of eternity, minted in memory of Faustina. Aeternitas is holding an eternal phoenix on a globe with her left hand while hitching up the hem of her skirt with her right hand.
Antoninus Pius, Emperor of Rome
Sear 4607; RIC 3-1105
ARTH250 (Professor V. Rousseau Fall 2021)
148 CE
KL
University Art Collection, University of St. Thomas (St. Paul)
Bronze (metal)
Latin
physical object
2012.02.215
Roman Empire
AR Denarius of Lucilla
money; coins (money)
This silver coin features an image of Augusta Lucilla, daughter of former Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius and granddaughter of Antoninus Pius, both among the "Five Good Emperors." Lucilla was a child bride to her father’s co-ruler, Lucius Verus, making her Empress at the age of eleven. Lucilla’s younger brother, Commodus, often behaved erratically, which concerned Lucilla when he served as emperor with their father - and Commodus had her killed over her concerns. The reverse side features Venus Victrix, holding a statue of Victory, while leaning against a shield. Venus Victrix was a powerful woman like Lucilla.
Lucilla, Empress of Rome
Sear 5492; RIC 3-786
ARTH250 (Professor V. Rousseau, Fall 2021)
168 CE
NG
University Art Collection, University of St. Thomas (St. Paul)
Silver (metal)
Latin
Physical Object
2012.02.220
Roman Empire