★ Ex Emile Bourgey, 1956 ★

ROMAN EMPIRE. Diva Faustina I (wife of Antoninus Pius).
Gold Aureus, AD 141-161. Rome.
Obv: DIVA FAVSTINA, diademed and draped bust right. Rev: AVGVSTA, Ceres, veiled, standing facing, head left, holding lit torches in upraised hands.

In secure plastic holder, graded NGC Ch AU Strike: 5/5 Surface: 4/5 - beautifully centred and lustrous, boasting a majestic portrait struck in high relief, certification number 4373307-002.

Faustina I ('the Elder'), likely born circa AD 86-95, was the wife of Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius and one of the most respected women of her time. Hailing from the Annia gens - a distinguished senatorial family - she married Pius at some point between 110-115, before he became emperor, and her status rose significantly when he ascended to the throne in 138. Faustina was greatly admired for her beauty, intelligence, and moral character, earning her the affection and respect of the Roman people. As empress, she played a pivotal role in the imperial court and was known for her charitable works and support of various social causes.

After her death in 140, Faustina was deified by her husband, a rare honour that reflected her esteemed position in Roman society. Temples were built and coins (such as the present one) were minted in her memory, signifying the deep respect she commanded. Faustina and Pius had several children, the most notable being their daughter Faustina II ('the Younger'), who later married Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Ex Roma Numismatics Ltd, Auction XXIII (24/3/2022), lot 991; ex Long Valley River Collection, Roma Numismatics Ltd, Auction XX (30/10/2020), lot 613; ex Leu Numismatik AG, Auction 1 (25/10/2017), lot 222; ex L. Harold Collection, Hess-Divo AG, Auction 324 (23/10/2013), lot 29 (hammer: 14,000 CHF); ex Émile Bourgey (26/11/1956), lot 107.

Reference: RIC III-357a (Antoninus Pius); BMCRE-403 (Antoninus Pius); Calicó-1758b.
Weight: 7.12 g.