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RPC 1965 Vespasian Tetradrachm
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ΑΥΤΟΚΡ ΚΑΙΣ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝ
Laureate bust of Vespasian right with aegis
ETOYΣ Γ IEPOY
Eagle standing left with wreath in beak on palm branch; club in left field
Caesarea Maritima mint, 70-71 CE
13.63g
RPC 1965 (1 spec.). Prieur 129.
Ex-Cgb
Rare. Only two others in Forum galleries (Atherton, Alberto)
Part of a small series of tetradrachms struck in Caesarea Maritima shortly after the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE.
After its fall, Titus spent three days outside the city handing out rewards and spoils to his troops.
"Then descending with his army to Caesarea Maritima, he there deposited the bulk of his spoils and directed that his prisoners should be kept in custody; for the winter season prevented his sailing for Italy" (Josephus)
It has been suggested this series of tetradrachms was struck during Titus' time in Caesaera. The style is fairly crude, although this specimen has a wonderful portrait, and is similar to other bronze coins attributed to Caesarea Maritima. Silver quality is not standardized, which gives evidence of a military issue. Being stuck just days or weeks after the fall of Jerusalem, surely these were part of the rewards Titus distributed to the troops.
Thanks to David Atherton for additional info.
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