Sestertius - Faustina the Elder (VENERI AVGVSTAE S C; Venus) (138-141) front Sestertius - Faustina the Elder (VENERI AVGVSTAE S C; Venus) (138-141) back
Sestertius - Faustina the Elder (VENERI AVGVSTAE S C; Venus) (138-141) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Faustina the Elder VENERI AVGVSTAE S C; Venus

 
Bronze 25 g 33.5 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
138-141
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
25 g
Diameter
33.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261442
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Venus, draped, standing right, with right hand gathering up drapery from right shoulder and holding apple in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VENERI AVGVSTAE S C

Translation:
Veneri Augustae. Senatus Consultum.
Of venerable Venus. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 22.56–27.91 g;
Diameter varies: 33–34 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, on one side, and an image of Faustina the Elder, the wife of Emperor Antoninus Pius, on the other side. This coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was at its peak, and it is a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and artistry of the Roman mint. Additionally, the use of bronze as the material for the coin reflects the value placed on this metal during that time period.