Sestertius of Faustina II, the Younger, Rome c. 161 - 176

Editor: This is a Sestertius coin of Faustina II, the Younger, from Rome. It's small, but the imagery of Faustina is striking. What symbols stand out to you in this piece? Curator: The portrait of Faustina, encircled by a wreath, embodies idealized Roman beauty and power. The wreath itself is a symbol of victory and authority, echoing the continuity of Roman imperial ideology. What about the figures on the reverse? Editor: It looks like a woman with children? Curator: Indeed. She embodies fecundity and the promise of succession. This visual vocabulary—the idealized portrait, the symbols of power, the promise of progeny—served to perpetuate the Roman imperial narrative. It's a fascinating insight into how societies construct lasting imagery. Editor: It’s amazing how much cultural meaning can be packed into a single coin! Curator: Exactly. It's a testament to the enduring power of symbols.