CVC & Collectables presents this AD 177-182/3 Roman Empire Crispina AR Denarius, graded by NGC as Choice Extremely Fine (CH XF), offers a glimpse into the tumultuous personal life of Crispina, the wife of Emperor Commodus. Married in the summer of 178, Crispina brought a substantial dowry of estates, augmenting Commodus’s wealth and influence in Lucania. The modest wedding ceremony was commemorated on coinage, symbolizing the union between Crispina and Commodus, and was accompanied by generous gifts to the populace.
Upon her marriage, Crispina was bestowed with the title of Augusta, becoming empress of the Roman Empire alongside her husband, who was co-emperor with his father at the time. Despite her elevated status, Crispina’s political influence over Commodus appears to have been limited, and she faced challenges within the imperial court, particularly from Lucilla, her ambitious sister-in-law.
Although Crispina was extensively honored with public images during her time as Augusta, her marriage failed to produce an heir, sparking a dynastic succession crisis. Allegations of adultery led to Crispina’s banishment to the island of Capri in 188, where she met her tragic fate with execution. Meanwhile, Commodus, having taken a mistress named Marcia, continued his reign without remarrying.
The AR Denarius bearing Crispina’s likeness serves as a poignant reminder of her turbulent life and eventual downfall, offering a numismatic window into the intrigues and power struggles of the Roman imperial court during the late 2nd century AD. Graded as Choice Extremely Fine by NGC, this coin preserves the historical narrative of Crispina’s rise and fall with remarkable clarity and detail.
Coin Highlights:
- Empress: Bruttia Crispina
- Metal: Silver
- Grade: Choice Extremely Fine, Strike 5/5 Surface 5/5
- Time period: AD 177-182/3
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