CVC & Collectables presents a Faustina II (Faustina Junior) AE sestertius, NGC Fine, with the classic MATRI MAGNAE reverse: Cybele seated between two lions with SC in exergue. Obverse bears FAVSTINA AVGVSTA with a draped bust right.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer/Empress: Faustina II (Faustina Junior)
- Date/Mint: AD 163–164, Rome
- Denomination/Metal: AE Sestertius (bronze)
- Grade: NGC Fine
- Obverse: FAVSTINA AVGVSTA — draped bust right
- Reverse: MATRI MAGNAE — Cybele seated right, drum in hand, lions flanking; SC in exergue
- References: RIC III 1663; Cohen 169
Empress History — Faustina II (Augusta AD 147–175/6)
- Accession & Role: Daughter of Antoninus Pius and Faustina I; married Marcus Aurelius; named Augusta in AD 147.
- Key Events: Frequent public honors; accompanied imperial travels during Danubian and Eastern campaigns; numerous imperial births bolstered dynastic legitimacy.
- Coinage & Propaganda: Themes of Fecunditas, Pietas, and cultic imagery (here Magna Mater) to emphasize motherhood and divine favor.
- Legacy: Died AD 175/6 (Cappadocia); deified as Diva Faustina Junior with extensive posthumous commemorations.
Collectibility:
A desirable Faustina II bronze with an iconic cult reverse. In NGC Fine, the legends and Cybele tableau are clear—ideal for Antonine or imperial cult/propaganda theme sets.
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