Aureus - Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger (VOTA PVBLICA) (145-160) front Aureus - Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger (VOTA PVBLICA) (145-160) back
Aureus - Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger (VOTA PVBLICA) (145-160) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Aureus - Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger VOTA PVBLICA

 
Gold 7.3 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
145-160
Value
1 Aureus = 25 Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Gold
Weight
7.3 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#260526
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Faustina the Younger, standing right, clasping right hands with Marcus Aurelius, standing left; between and behind them, Cornucopia, standing right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VOTA PVBLICA

Unabridged legend: Vota Publica

Translation: The vows (prayers) of the public

Comment

Mass varies: 7.2–7.445 g;

Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Aureus coin featuring Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger is that it was minted during a time of significant cultural and religious change in the Roman Empire. The coin's inscription, "VOTA PVBLICA," suggests that it was issued to commemorate a public vote or decree, possibly related to the emperor's policies or military campaigns. Additionally, the coin's gold content and intricate design reflect the wealth and artistic sophistication of the Roman Empire during this period.