Aureus - Faustina the Younger (LAETITIA; Laetitia) (161-176) front Aureus - Faustina the Younger (LAETITIA; Laetitia) (161-176) back
Aureus - Faustina the Younger (LAETITIA; Laetitia) (161-176) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Aureus - Faustina the Younger LAETITIA; Laetitia

 
Gold 7.3 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
161-176
Value
1 Aureus = 25 Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Gold
Weight
7.3 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#263377
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Laetitia, draped, standing left, holding wreath in right hand and sceptre in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: LAETITIA

Translation:
Laetitia.
Joy.

Comment

Mass varies: 7.23–7.32 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Aureus coin featuring Faustina the Younger is that it was minted during a time of significant cultural and religious change in the Roman Empire. The coin's obverse side features an image of Faustina, while the reverse side depicts the goddess Laetitia, who was a personification of happiness and prosperity. This coin was minted during a period when the Roman Empire was transitioning from a polytheistic religion to Christianity, and the image of Laetitia represents the old Roman religion, while Faustina's image symbolizes the new Christian ideals. This coin is a unique representation of the blending of old and new beliefs during this time period.