Vespasian RIC II 1065

Vespasian. 69-79 A.D. Rome Mint. 79 A.D. to 24 June. (3.38g, 18.3m, 6h). Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG, laureate head right. Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII, statute of radiate male figure (Sol?) with spear and parazonium, on rostral column. RIC II 1065 (R), BMC 254, RSC 559. Ex. Harry N. Sneh Collection.

This was among Vespasian’s last issue of denarii prior to his death. The rostral column is usually associated with a great military victory. Mattingly supposes this denarius shows the colossus, with the features of Nero or Titus, which was erected in 75 A.D. Recent scholarship questions if the figure isn’t Sol. This specimen has a broad flan, a full weight, and complete legends.