© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Aureus - Faustina the Younger LAETITIA; Laetitia
| Gold | 7.3 g | 19 mm |
| 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 |
| 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.