Faustina II (161-175 AD) AR Denarius. Rome, 161-164 AD. Hilaritas. Masterful portrait

Description

Roman Imperial. Faustina II “The Younger” (Augusta, 161-175 AD) AR Denarius (3.21g, 19mm). Rome mint, temp. Marcus Aurelius (Augustus, AD 161 – 180), Lucius Verus (co-Augustus, AD 161 – 169), struck circa 161-164 AD.
Obverse: FAUSTINA AVGVSTA. Draped bust right.
Reverse: HILARITAS. Hilaritas standing left, holding cornucopia and palm frond set on ground.
References: RIC III Aurelius 686; RSC 111; Göbl MIR 18, Fa15-4/10b.
Pedigree: Ex-Artemide Aste srl e-Auction 11, Lot 450 (San Marino, 26 January 2020).

Notes: Struck from superior dies of fine style, with an uncharacteristically artistic and expressive portrait of the empress. Beautiful iridescent tone, flow lines. Small nick on Faustina’s neck beneath the jawline, minor area of flat strike at Hilaritas’ feet.

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