RIC 1382 Vespasian

AR Denarius, 3.23g
Uncertain mint, 69-71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONSEN EXERCIT (in two upright parallel lines); soldiers, two, each holding aquila and clasping hands
RIC 1382 (R3, this coin?). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex NAC 125, 24 June 2021, lot 507. Ex DNW A11, 27 September 2011, lot 2198 (part). Ex John Quinn Collection.

This iconic reverse type of two soldiers clasping hands with the legend CONSEN EXERCIT (in two vertical lines!) symbolises the harmony of the legions coming together for Vespasian during the Year of the Four Emperors. The propaganda value of such a reverse type cannot be underestimated. The coin likely would have circulated amongst the troops newly won over or the Vitellian forces that were wavering just after the second battle of Cremona in October 69. Oddly, the type is very rare and was not struck in any large quantities, probably because the window of time for such an appropriate issue was very narrow, perhaps only a few weeks.

The type is listed as unique in RIC uncertain military issue group 5 (distinguished from group 4 by superior style). This may be the coin RIC actually cites, but I do not have access to Spink Numismatic Circular 100.8 to be certain. Either way an extremely rare piece. Formerly from the John Quinn Collection. Quinn (1870-1924) was an attorney, patron, and art collector from NYC whose legendary modern art collection is still heralded today as one of the finest ever assembled and help shaped American tastes in the arts.