Faustina II

(Annia Galeria Faustina)

Augusta (161AD-176AD)

Wife of Marcus Aurelius and daughter of Antoninus Pius, she was born ca 128 and married Aurelius in 145. Her coinage was extensive (25 years) and she enjoyed great popularity as the crown princess of the 140s. She received many honours that are not in the coinage: Augusta (147 AD), Mater Castrorum, Matri Magnae, Matri Deum, Fortunae Muliebri. Faustina had twelve or more children many of whom died young. The children are frequently depicted on her coinage in line with the dynastic policy of the Antonines. Much scandal has been attributed to Faustina - was reputed to have had sailors and gladiators as lovers - however the sources for this are dubious.

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Coins currently available of Faustina II :