Faustina the Elder, 138-161, Sestertius

Faustina the Elder, Sestertius, AE, Reign of Antoninus Pius, minted in Rome, 138-161 AD. Weight: 22.95g, Diameter: 32mm. The obverse features a draped bust of Faustina the Elder facing right, with the inscription "FAVSTINA AVG ANTONINI AVG PII P P." The reverse depicts Concordia seated left, holding a patera and resting elbow on a cornucopia, with "CONCORDIA AVG S C" inscribed. Well-centered strike with minor surface marks consistent with circulation. Referenced in RIC III Antoninus Pius 1075.

Faustina the Elder was the wife of Emperor Antoninus Pius and was deified after her death in 140 AD. Coins bearing her effigy serve as an enduring testament to her status and influence within the Roman Empire, symbolizing imperial virtue and harmony. This coin, minted posthumously, reflects the Roman tradition of honoring revered family members of the imperial household, thereby reinforcing the legitimacy and stability of Antoninus Pius's reign.