Description
Manlia Scantilla served as a Roman empress during the brief reign of her husband, Didius Julianus, in 193 AD. Historical records do not extensively document her life and role as empress. However, she is known for her brief period in the imperial limelight during one of Rome’s more turbulent times, known as the Year of the Five Emperors.
Didius Julianus came to power under controversial circumstances, having essentially bought the Roman Empire at an auction held by the Praetorian Guard following the murder of his predecessor, Pertinax. Scantilla became empress upon his accession to the throne. However, her time as an empress was short-lived. Didius Julianus’ rule lasted only a few months before Septimius Severus overthrew him.
After Julianus’s downfall, Scantilla and her daughter, Didia Clara, were stripped of their titles and privileges.
Little information survives about the rest of her life following these events. The dramatic and chaotic political context of her husband’s brief rule overshadows Scantilla’s story. Her life exemplifies women’s often precarious and vulnerable position in the Roman imperial family, especially during political instability.
Rarity and Value: Due to the extremely brief reign of Didius Julianus, coins minted during his time, including those featuring Manlia Scantilla, are scarce. This rarity makes them highly sought after by collectors and historians. In 2022, an original Manlia Scantilla gold Aureus coin was auctioned off for $307,000.
Obverse: MANLIA SCANTILLA AVG, draped bust right.
Reverse: IVNO REGINA, Juno standing left, holding patera & scepter, peacock at feet standing left.
Diameter: 18 mm
Material: Gold-plated lead-free pewter
Made in the USA
Packaged in a coin collecting flip with printed description on insert.
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