Plotina





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PLOTINA (Pompeia), wife of Trajan whom she married before he became emperor. On his accession, Plotina accompanied Trajan at his entry into Rome, amidst universal acclamation. This princess, amiable in disposition, dignified in manners, rich in intellectual endowments, and truly benevolent in all her actions, conferred honor by her virtues on the throne itself; and greatly added to the glory of her husbands reign by the wisdom of her councils, and the fidelity with which she repaid his unbounded confidence.


She lived harmoniously with Marciana, Trajan's sister and they were both awarded the title of AUGUSTA by the Senate at the same time as Trajan received the title of PATER PATRIAE.

It was through Plotina's influence that Trajan consented to give his grand-niece, Sabina, in marriage to Hadrian and it is even said that she entreated Trajan, while on his death bed, to adopt Hadrian as his successor.

Plotina, who had travelled with Trajan on his eastern expedition, returned after his death to Rome with a golden urn containing the ashes of her imperial husband. She died in A.D.129 and was deified by Hadrian.

Her gold coins are very rare, silver and AE Sestertii are rarer. Dupondii and Asses are unknown. Her coins bear the legend PLOTINA AVG IMP TRAIANI. Some issues represent her with Trajan, Matidia and Hadrian.

The colonial coins of Plotina are, according to Vaillant, of the highest degree of rarity. Amongst those bearing Latin inscriptions are issues from Cassendreia in Macedonia, and Corinth in Achaia.
 


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