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RIC 0663 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius?, 10.48g
Rome mint, 73-74 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIAN COS II; Bust of Domitian, laureate, draped, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 663 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from CGB.fr, December 2020.

For Domitian Caesar's first major bronze issue at Rome under Vespasian draped busts are reserved for dupondii and the Spes reverses for asses. Therefore, this rare coin with a draped bust and Spes on the reverse presents quite a conundrum. RIC notes the discrepancy but does not make a ruling leaving the matter an open question (literally with a question mark). This specimen appears to be made of copper, hence an as, but the borderline dupondius weight of 10.48g does not clear things up. A puzzling coin type indeed!

Fine early style and dark green patina.1 commentsDavid Atherton12/30/20 at 12:02FlaviusDomitianus: Nice one, I regarded mine as a dupondius

RIC 0421 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 26.63g
Rome mint, 72 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP PON TR POT COS II; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: FORTVNAE REDVCI; S C in field; Fortuna stg. l., with branch and rudder on globe, and cornucopiae
RIC 421 (R). BMC 630. BNC 617.
Acquired from Liberty Coin, December 2020.

An early sestertius struck for Titus Caesar featuring a reverse type also coined for Vespasian. FORTVNAE REDVCI (Fortuna the home-bringer) commemorates Titus's safe return from the Judaean War the previous year. Considered somewhat scarce. RIC notes that Fortuna's branch is often invisible - although it is quite evident on this example.

Worn but honest and in good early style.4 commentsDavid Atherton12/26/20 at 14:03Vincent: Attractive style and story

RIC 1393 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.01g
Ephesus Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG on shield in oak wreath
RIC 1393 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Künker eLive Auction 63, 30 November 2020, lot 195.

An extremely rare Ephesian Group 1 denarius. This unique reverse design of AVG on shield would not be repeated for subsequent issues. Unlike most of the later Ephesian groups, the Group 1 denarii lack mint marks. Fourth known specimen, missing from all the major collections. The type was completely unknown until the first specimen surfaced at auction in 1998 (Schenk-Behrens 76, 26 Nov. 1998, lot 186 - the lone example cited by RIC).

Good Ephesian style.4 commentsDavid Atherton12/24/20 at 11:57maridvnvm: Great find

RIC 1323 VespasianÆ As, 12.50g
Tarraco (?) mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S C in field; COS ITER FORT RED; Fortuna, draped, standing l.,setting r. hand on prow and holding cornucopiae in l. hand
RIC 1323 (R). BMC -. BNC 798.
Acquired from eBay, December 2020.

Spain declared for Vespasian late in 69 after the second battle of Cremona in October. Spanish mints immediately began striking coinage in all metals for Vespasian, with perhaps Tarraco being the primary mint of the province. The early aes coinage copied many of the reverse designs seen on the precious metals at Rome, as is the case with this Fortuna type. All the coins from the issue are quite rare indicating they were not struck for any length of time, perhaps only to address a shortage of bronze coinage in the region.

Nice earthen patina.2 commentsDavid Atherton12/19/20 at 12:34FlaviusDomitianus: Nice example.

RIC 0232 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 25.70g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: HONOS ET VIRTVS; S C in exergue; Honos stg. r. with sceptre and cornucopiae, and Virtus stg. l. with spear and parazonium
RIC 232 (R). BMC 530. BNC 484.
Acquired from Den of Antiquity, October 2020.

Struck during Vespasian's massive bronze issue of 71, this HONOS ET VIRTVS reverse type copies one struck earlier by Galba. The occasion for resurrecting it may have been prompted by Vespasian's restoration of the temple of Honos and Virtus recently damaged during Nero's great fire. Very rare, only two reverse dies for the type were recorded by C. Kraay.

Dark brown toning with some cleaning marks.3 commentsDavid Atherton12/12/20 at 20:03snapapuss: nice

RIC 0448 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 9.94g
Rome mint, 72 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP P TR P COS II; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PROVIDENT in exergue; S C in field; Altar
RIC 448 (R). BMC 692A. BNC 634.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, November 2020.

Originally, Tiberius struck the Provident altar type for Divus Augustus. The altar depicted is dedicated to Providentia, the personification of the emperor's divine providence. Although the type is commonly described as an altar, Marvin Tameanko has convincingly argued it is actually a sacellum, or small shrine. Vespasian began striking it early in his reign both at Rome and Lyon, confining the type to the as issues. Nathan T. Elkins in his Monuments in Miniature wrote the following concerning the type - 'Asses with an altar enclosure labeled PROVIDENT, combine with obverses of Vespasian or his sons, are the emperor's most common architectural type and were produced from c. 71 to 78. The Ara Providentiae, which had appeared before on coins of Tiberius, Galba, and Vitellius, celebrated the emperor's foresight in the designation of his successors. The combination of the reverse type with obverses of one of the two Caesars further underscored the dynastic message.' This rare PROVIDENT from 72 is the first instance of the type struck for Titus Caesar.

Oddly, the coin has a 12 o'clock die axis, unusual for Rome at this time.3 commentsDavid Atherton12/12/20 at 14:19Vincent: Great story and fabulous coin

RIC 1288 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] Æ As, 8.03g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS V; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: S C in field; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l.
RIC 1288 (C). BMC 875. BNC 886.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, November 2020.

This Lugdunese As struck for Domitian Caesar in 77-78 copies a common type originally struck on the precious metals for the young prince at Rome in 73. It commemorates Domitian's appearance at Vespasian and Titus' joint Jewish War Triumph - 'while taking part in the Judaean triumph, he rode on a white horse' (Suetonius, Domitian, ii). Curiously, Mattingly in BMCRE describes the reverse as Domitian 'holding vertical sceptre with human head'! It's a mystery why a type struck at Rome several years previously was resurrected by the Lugdunum mint for this issue of Domitian asses.

Good Lugdunese style struck on a large flan.1 commentsDavid Atherton12/10/20 at 12:47Jay GT4: Iconic, right out of the history books

RIC 0398 VespasianÆ As, 9.94g
Rome mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVSTI; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l., with scales and rod
RIC 398 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, November 2020.

Aequitas on Vespasian's coinage proclaims that the honest administration of public finances and lapsed standards would be restored. Aequitas holding her scales and measuring rod was probably based on a cult image of the deity. She first shows up as an imperial virtue on the coinage under Galba, a virtue that Vespasian was eager to emulate. Rare COS IIII variant of the Aequitas type from 72-73 AD. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.1 commentsDavid Atherton11/26/20 at 12:24FlaviusDomitianus: Another nice rarity.

RIC 1177 VespasianÆ As, 9.68g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 1177 (R). BMC Spec. acquired 1934. BNC -.
Acquired from Zuzim, November 2020.

A fairly rare Lugdunese As Struck during the great bronze issue of 71 when both Rome and Lugdunum (modern Lyon) produced a massive quantities of base metal coinage. Victory was a common theme on Vespasian's early issues and should be most generally viewed in a generic context with no specific link to the Jewish War. This type with Victory sans prow is scarcer than those that include it. This particular variant features CAESAR fully spelled out in the obv. legend.

Coppery tone and good style.1 commentsDavid Atherton11/17/20 at 21:53Jay GT4: Good pick up

RIC 1178 VespasianÆ As, 11.11g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: VICTORIA NAVALIS; S C in field; Victory stg. r. on prow, with wreath and palm
RIC 1178 (R2). BMC p. 201 ‡. BNC 812.
Acquired from Harlan J Berk, Fixed Price 4, October 2020.

A fairly rare VICTORIA NAVALIS variant struck at Lugdunum (modern Lyon) during the huge bronze issue of 71 AD. The Victory on prow type is traditionally attributed to the naval victory Vespasian won on Lake Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee) during the Jewish War.

Good overall eye-appeal.2 commentsDavid Atherton11/05/20 at 02:58Jay GT4: Sweet!

RIC 0807 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Quinarius, 1.37g
Rome mint, 75(?) AD
Obv: T CAESAR VESPASIAN; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 807 (C). BMC 313. RSC 373. BNC 275.
Acquired from Dr. Busso Peus Nachf., October 2020.

Vespasian's moneyer's struck a great issue of undated quinarii in 75, possibly in conjunction with the opening of his Temple of Peace. These tiny coins may have been distributed during special occasions. Two standard Victory types (seated or advancing) were employed along with various variant legend spellings and orientations. The variations are: obverse legend - VESPASIANVS or more commonly for Titus Caesar VESPASIAN; reverse legend - AVGVSTI or less commonly AVGVST. The reverse legend can also either be oriented from low r. or high l. Dating this undated issue is a little tricky. The quinarii struck before 75 have AVGVSTI in the reverse legend, while those struck after 75 use the shorter AVGVST. The undated issue employs both forms, therefore it fits neatly to 75. This Titus Caesar quinarius is one of the more common variants struck for him during the issue.

Superb portrait with good eye-appeal.
2 commentsDavid Atherton10/28/20 at 13:37FlaviusDomitianus: Nice example.

RIC 0422 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 24.15g
Rome mint, 72 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP PON TR POT COS II; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to l., Titus stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r.
RIC 422 (R). BMC 631. BNC 618. Hendin 1523.
Acquired from Marti Classical Numismatics, October 2020.

Vespasian and Titus Caesar held a joint triumph in 71 for their Jewish War victory, but it wasn't until the following year that Judaea Capta coins were struck for Titus commemorating his own military achievement during the siege of Jerusalem. The reverse of this rare sestertius first struck for Titus in 72 directly copies one famously coined for Vespasian the previous year. This iconic type features a triumphal Titus proudly standing, holding a spear and parazonium (a triangular sword) with his foot on an enemy helmet, while the personification of Judaea sits at the base of a palm tree (representing the land of Judaea) in abject despair - take note of their size discrepancy.

Some pitting and wear but struck in fine style.2 commentsDavid Atherton10/15/20 at 22:40Jay GT4: Nice!

RIC 1539A Vespasian AR Denarius, 3.30g
Antioch mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONT MAX TRIB POT; Pax std. r., with sceptre and branch
RIC 1539A. BMC -. BNC -. RPC -.
Acquired from CGB.fr, April 2020.

An extremely rare unlisted Antiochene denarius which copies a type previously only recorded for Antiochene aurei (RIC 1539). This is the second known example of this Pax type in silver, the other was previously at auction in 2018 (NN 71, lot 449). The 'TRIB POT' reverse legend is unique to Antioch and only appears with this Pax type. The coin is in very early style with Vespasian unusually sporting a full head of hair. All the coins from this first Antiochene issue are quite rare and do not come up in trade very often.

This denarius type has been newly added to the upcoming RIC II.1 A&C as RIC 1539A.6 commentsDavid Atherton10/13/20 at 04:39orfew: Really wonderful

RIC 1166 VespasianÆ As, 10.80g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: PROVIDENT; S C in field; Altar
RIC 1166 (R2). BMC Specimen acquired 1959. BNC -.
Acquired from CGB.fr, October 2020.

Tiberius was the first to strike the PROVIDENT altar type for Divus Augustus. The altar depicted is dedicated to Providentia, the personification of the emperor's divine providence. Although the type is commonly described in the major references as an altar, Marvin Tameanko has convincingly argued it is actually a sacellum, or small shrine. This popular reverse was later revived during the Civil War by Galba and Vitellius. Vespasian began striking it early in his reign, especially during his great bronze issue of 71 at both Rome and Lugdunum. This Lugdunese example is much rarer than the Rome variant.

Struck on an oversized flan in superb style.
2 commentsDavid Atherton10/09/20 at 16:23FlaviusDomitianus: Nice addition.

RIC 1255 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 11.37g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP AVG F TR P COS VI CENSOR; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: FIDES PVBLICA; S C in field; Fides stg. l., with patera and cornucopiae
RIC 1255 (R3). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from CGB.fr, September 2020.

Possibly a second known example of the rare Fides dupondius type for Titus Caesar at Lyon (Lugdunum) - although Giard cites one specimen and Cohen cites another, so perhaps mine is actually the third known despite the R3 rating in RIC. Fides was struck far more commonly for Vespasian at this mint, leading Curtis Clay to conclude this type for Titus Caesar may very well be a mule using a reverse intended for Vespasian. FIDES PVBLICA, the good faith of the state, was a common personification on the coinage. The figure on the reverse is likely based on a cult statue of the goddess whose annual sacrifice occurred on 1 October. Important documents of state and treaties were stored in her temple for safe keeping. The laureate portrait seen here is standard for Titus's dupondii at Lugdunum. Of note, Titus's censorship is given prominent billing in the obverse legend.

Stellar Lugdunese style.

**Special thanks to Curtis Clay for Addenda and Corrections** 4 commentsDavid Atherton10/07/20 at 18:20okidoki: Congrats very nice

RIC 0756 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 12.00g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON•MAX•TR•POT•P•P•COS V CENS•; Winged caduceus between crossed cornuacopiae
RIC 756 (C). BMC 886. BNC 904. RPC 1982 (3 spec.).
Acquired from CGB.fr, September 2020.

Traditionally, the issue this rather strange laureate dupondius is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. It has been attributed to Commagene (BMCRE II, pp.217-222) and Antioch (e.g. RPC II 1982-2005). T. Buttrey writing in the RIC II.1 unpublished A&C explains - 'The correct attribution to Rome is proved by mules of the dupondii with regular issues (Buttrey, “Vespasian’s Roman Orichalcum: An Unrecognized Celebratory Coinage” in David M. Jacobson and Nikos Kokkinos, Judaea and Rome in Coins, 65 CBE – 135 CE (2012). The series had nothing to do with Syria or with the East at all, yet it was purposefully designed to appear non-Roman: the suppression of the traditional reverse sub-inscription S C throughout; the suppression of the radiate crown of the Dupondius; the shifting of the consular dating from the obv. to the rev.; the striking of all four denominations in orichalcum; and most obviously the selection of rev. dies which reek of the East. There is nothing like this series in the whole of Roman imperial coinage. It is a deliberate act of Orientalism, imposing the flavour of the East on a Western coinage.'

This is the less common right facing portrait variant, seemingly struck at a 1:2 ratio against the left facing.

Fine style and good clean brassy surfaces.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/26/20 at 15:05FlaviusDomitianus: Handsome.

RIC 0658 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 11.09g
Rome mint, 73-74 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIAN COS II; Bust of Domitian, laureate, draped, bearded, r.
Rev: FELICITAS PVBLICA; S C in field; Felicitas stg. l., with caduceus and cornucopiae
RIC 658 (C). BMC p. 157 note *. BNC 693.
Acquired from CGB.fr, September 2020.

A most stylish dupondius struck for Domitian Caesar in either 73 or 74 from one of his earliest bronze issues at Rome. The dupondii from this issue are laureate instead of radiate and can be differentiated from the asses by the draped busts and metal content (yellowish orichalcum). The Felicitas on the reverse symbolises the prosperity and abundance the Flavian dynasty has brought to the empire. It is certainly one of the most abundant reverse types of Vespasian's reign. Surprisingly, this common Domitian Caesar Felicitas is missing from the BM's extensive collection.

The engraver who worked on the obverse had talent to spare and rendered a wonderful portrait in fine style.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/26/20 at 15:04FlaviusDomitianus: Nice example.

RIC 0195 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 25.37g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., drapery on l. shoulder
Rev: ROMA RESVRGES; S C in exergue; Vespasian stg. l., raising kneeling Roma (city); behind, the goddess Roma stg. r.
RIC 195 (R2). BMC 565. BNC 531.
Acquired from Marti Numismatics, September 2020. Ex Jean Elsen Auction 144, 14 March 2020, lot 526.

This iconic sestertius struck during the great bronze issue of 71 advertises Vespasian's ambitions to repair both the great financial burden and physical devastation Rome had suffered from the recent Civil War and Nero's great fire of 64. Vespasian is shown extending a hand to raise the kneeling personification of the city of Rome while the goddess Roma looks on with approval in the background. Suetonius tells us 'Rome was unsightly because of earlier fires and collapsed buildings...Having undertaken the restoration of the Capitol, he (Vespasian) was the first to set his hands to clearing away the rubble and carried it off on his own shoulders.' It would cost nearly 400 million aueri to set things right and put the city and the empire on sound footing. The 'Resurgence of Rome' announces the beginning of the bold plan to do so, which in hindsight was quite successful. The completion of the temple of Claudius, the rebuilding of the Capitol, the construction of the temple of Peace, and the building of the Colosseum all attest to Vespasian's success at achieving his goal.

Ironically, despite the importance of the reverse's message, these ultra-rare ROMA RESVRGES sestertii were struck from only one die pair and could not have been produced in very large numbers. Also of note, the drapery on Vespasian's left shoulder marks this coin as part of a special issue (the vast majority of his portraits are unadorned). Remarkably, this same exact scene was used for a reverse with the legend LIBERTAS RESTITVTA, probably produced by the same engraver.

Many examples of this type seen in trade are actually Paduan aftercasts in poor condition and are mistakenly(?) presented as ancient coins.

Fantastic portrait with beautiful dark olive patina. No tooling or smoothing!3 commentsDavid Atherton09/26/20 at 11:37*Alex: Great coin. Congratulations

RIC 0590 VespasianÆ As, 9.44g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS IIII CENS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., leaning on column, with caduceus and branch
RIC 590 (C). BMC 668. BNC 656.
Acquired from CGB.fr, September 2020.

In 73 Vespasian and Titus Caesar held a joint censorship which was duly recorded on the coinage. This As with the slightly less common left facing portrait is from the very first bronze issue recording the censorship. After the recently concluded Judaean and Civil wars, Pax in her various guises was a major theme for Vespasian's coinage. The Pax leaning on a column type is likely based on a cult image while the legend 'PAX AVGVST' advertises the emperor as peacemaker.

Nice eye-appeal.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/20/20 at 08:34shanxi: nice coin, strange size difference between s and c

RIC 0333 VespasianÆ As, 10.35g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; S C in exergue; Victory adv. r. to place wreath on standard and holding palm
RIC 333 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, August 2020.

This rare As struck in 71 is the earliest Vespasianic appearance of Victory placing a wreath on a standard. The type would be more commonly struck for the denarius during Vespasian and Titus's joint consulship a year or so later. Often this Victory type is erroneously attributed as part of the 'Judaea Capta' series. I think it can be correctly viewed as simply a generic Victory with no specific war in mind.

The type was unpublished until the its appearance in the new RIC II.1. A previous specimen in a 2007 CNG auction was mistakenly attributed as a mule before the publication of the new RIC II.1. https://www.cngcoins.com/Coin.aspx?CoinID=109101#

Lovely coppery tone accented with dark green patina.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/06/20 at 08:55FlaviusDomitianus: Nice addition.

RIC 0890 VespasianÆ As, 9.63g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG COS VII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVST; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l., with scales and rod
RIC 890 (C). BMC -. BNC 755.
Acquired from CGB.fr, August 2020.

Vespasian inherited a financial mess upon his accession in 69. His top priority was putting the state on a sound financial footing. Symbolic of that righting of the empire was the common reverse type of Aequitas. Aequitas holding her scales and measuring rod was probably based on a cult image of the deity. She first shows up as an imperial virtue on the coinage under Galba - a virtue that Vespasian was eager to emulate. This particular COS VII example struck in 76 at Rome is considered by RIC (p. 51) to be one of the most common bronze coins struck for Vespasian. Oddly enough, no examples are in the BM's extensive collection!

Dark brown patina and good style.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/05/20 at 14:50Jay GT4: I've always liked that color patina

RIC 0641 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 9.90g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP PON TR P COS II CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory stg. r. on prow, with wreath and palm
RIC 641 (R). BMC 675. BNC 690.
Acquired from CGB.fr, August 2020.

A generic Victory on prow type struck when Titus held the joint censorship with Vespasian which is advertised in the obverse legend. This Victory type would be repeatedly struck throughout Vespasian's reign for both father and son with the prow possibly alluding to 'Victory at sea'. Some collectors and dealers refer to this as a 'Judaea Capta' type, although there is not an explicit connection. This variant is rated 'rare' by the new RIC II.1.

Good portrait with off-centred reverse.2 commentsDavid Atherton09/04/20 at 14:37FlaviusDomitianus: Nice example.

RIC 0761 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 10.82g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: T•CAESAR•IMP•PONT; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR•POT•COS III•CENSOR•; Winged caduceus between crossed cornuacopiae
RIC 761 (C). BMC 891. BNC 907. RPC 1991 (2 spec.).
Ex LNE, eBay, 5 August 2020. Formerly in NGC holder 5769771-013, grade 'F'.

A truly remarkable Titus Caesar dupondius struck in Rome under Vespasian, but lacking the traditional radiate portrait on the obverse and the de rigueur S C on the reverse. The reverse with crossed cornucopiae echoes similar types from the East. Traditionally, the issue this rather strange coin is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. However, hoard and findspot data indicates these coins circulated in the Western empire and not in the East. Ted Buttrey in the RIC II.1 A&C wrote - 'RIC 756-767 are irregular Dupondii, which should be taken together with Asses, semisses and quadrantes (RIC 1564-1581), forming together a single extraordinary issue in four denominations, distinct in typology and metal, as well as overall character from the regular coinage of the year. Although Eastern in aspect and reverse type, the circulation area of the dupondii is almost exclusively Gaul, Germany, Italy – i.e. the West, with scarcely any penetration of the East. Finds of the smaller denominations are rarely attested anywhere, East or West. The Eastern finds appear to be simply the débris of Mediterranean circulation.'

Why was an Eastern flavoured coinage struck for circulation in the West? Perhaps it may be nothing more than Vespasian paying homage to that part of the world that elevated him. This example is the slightly more common right facing portrait, although only 2 specimens are cited from the 'core collections' in RPC.

Fetching dark brown patina in fine style.3 commentsDavid Atherton08/22/20 at 01:24Jay GT4: Nice one

RIC 1181 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 24.27g
Lyon mint, 72 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to l., Vespasian stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass
RIC 1181 (R). BMC 812. BNC 814. Hendin 1544.
Acquired from GB Collection, July 2020.

In 70 AD Jerusalem was besieged and sacked and the Temple razed by the Roman forces commanded by Titus Caesar. The following year a massive joint Triumph was held in Rome for Vespasian and Titus to celebrate their successful conclusion of the Jewish Rebellion. Coins were also issued to commemorate their victory. These so called 'Judaea Capta' coins first appeared in late 70 just after the fall of Jerusalem in August, both in the precious metals and at first sparingly in bronze. The overwhelming majority of these coins were produced in Rome, but many provincial imperial mints also contributed to the mass media onslaught of 'Judaea Capta'. This rare sestertius from 72 struck in Lyon copies the iconic Rome mint proto-type of Vespasian proudly standing holding a spear and parazonium (a ceremonial triangular sword) with his foot on an enemy helmet, while Judaea is sitting on a captured cuirass in abject despair - take note of their size discrepancy. Modern viewers see this as a forlorn scene of defeat, however, to the Roman coin designers the images are meant to convey victory over a worthy foe. The Jewish War was an important event for the fledgling Flavian dynasty - in essence it gave them the legitimacy to rule. The ensuing avalanche of propaganda after the 'Gotterdammerung' fall of Jerusalem is awe inspiring. The slight of hand the Flavian regime pulled off which transformed defeated rebel provincials into a foreign menace is truly amazing. The coins were a major part of the regime's propaganda commemorating Vespasian's defeat of the Jews and saving the empire. Their efforts paid off, for even today this 'Judaea Capta' type is one of the most iconic and recognised reverses in the whole of Roman coinage.

An honest example in pleasing Lugdunese style and an obverse die match with the Paris specimen.3 commentsDavid Atherton08/06/20 at 20:14quadrans: Nice piece.. Smile

RIC 1508 VespasianÆ20, 4.37g
Ephesus (?) mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVGVST; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P P P COS VIII CENS; S C low in field; Caduceus, winged, between crossed cornuacopiae
RIC 1508 (R2). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1477A.
Acquired from eBay, July 2020.

A year or so after a mysterious mint in Asia Minor (dubbed the 'o' mint) struck a rare series of denarii an even rarer issue of bronze appeared in the same region. The two issues are linked by similar circulation patterns and somewhat similar styles. The bronzes are imprecisely dated to the 77-78 time period but were likely struck for only a brief period, judging by their extreme rarity. Three denominations were produced in orichalcum apparently using a provincial weight system. The unique legends are in Latin and the reverse types copy those struck in Rome, but many have obvious 'Eastern' themes. The crossed cornucopiae seen on this coin likely echos a similar 'Eastern' themed reverse struck in Rome and on other eastern civic issues.

Admittedly, the link to the infamous 'o' mint is tenuous at best, but it is the most sound theory proposed so far (M. Grant, 'Asses of Orichalcum', Centennial Publication of the American Numismatic Study, pp. 285-302).

Dark black and green patina and nicely centred.3 commentsDavid Atherton08/05/20 at 01:49Jay GT4: Great pick up David

RIC 0589 VespasianÆ As, 11.55g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS IIII CENS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., leaning on column, with caduceus and branch
RIC 589 (C). BMC spec. acquired 1958. BNC 655.
Acquired from Lost Dutchman Rare Coins, July 2020.

In 73 Vespasian and Titus Caesar held a joint censorship which was duly recorded on the coinage. This fairly worn As is from the very first bronze issue recording that censorship. Most Asses from the issue are quite rare - this Pax type is probably the most 'common' reverse of the group. The right facing portrait variant was missing from the BM's collection until 1958, hinting it may be slightly rarer than the left facing.

Good metal and pleasing style.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/27/20 at 22:19Jay GT4: That nose and chin!

RIC 0762 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 11.90g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: T•CAESAR•IMP•PONT; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: TR•POT•COS III•CENSOR•; Winged caduceus between crossed cornuacopiae
RIC 762 (R2). BMC -. BNC 909. RPC 1992 (1 spec.).
Acquired from Aegean Numismatics, July 2020.

A truly remarkable dupondius. Struck in Rome, but lacking the traditional radiate portrait on the obverse and the de rigueur S C on the reverse. The reverse with crossed cornucopiae echoes similar types from the East. Traditionally, the issue this rather strange coin is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. Ted Buttrey writing in the RIC II.1 Addenda commented extensively on it. Because both the Addenda has yet to see the light of day and T. Buttrey's thoughts on the subject are important, I have largely quoted it in full here with some minor editing.

'RIC 756-767 are irregular Dupondii, which should be taken together with Asses, semisses and quadrantes (RIC 1564-1581), forming together a single extraordinary issue in four denominations, distinct in typology and metal, as well as overall character from the regular coinage of the year. Although Eastern in aspect and reverse type, the circulation area of the dupondii is almost exclusively Gaul, Germany, Italy – i.e. the West, with scarcely any penetration of the East. Finds of the smaller denominations are rarely attested anywhere, East or West. The Eastern finds appear to be simply the débris of Mediterranean circulation.

Previously the series had been attributed to Commagene (BMCRE II, pp.217-222), then as a likelihood to Antioch (e.g. RPC II 1982-2005). The correct attribution to Rome is proved by mules of the dupondii with regular issues (Buttrey, “Vespasian’s Roman Orichalcum: An Unrecognized Celebratory Coinage” in David M. Jacobson and Nikos Kokkinos, Judaea and Rome in Coins, 65 CBE – 135 CE (2012). The series had nothing to do with Syria or with the East at all, yet it was purposefully designed to appear non-Roman: the suppression of the traditional reverse sub-inscription S C throughout; the suppression of the radiate crown of the Dupondius; the shifting of the consular dating from the obv. to the rev.; the striking of all four denominations in orichalcum; and most obviously the selection of rev. dies which reek of the East.

There is nothing like this series in the whole of Roman imperial coinage. It is a deliberate act of Orientalism, imposing the flavour of the East on a Western coinage. The key to its understanding is the reverse type of the dupondius, two crossed cornuacopiae with a winged caduceus between. It replicates the type of an obscure issue of the Galilean city of Sepphoris, an issue which had been, astonishingly, signed by Vespasian himself (ΕΠΙ ΟΥΕCΠΑCΙΑΝΟΥ, “on the authority of…”) when on duty there in the last days of Nero. The dupondius-sized bronze was accompanied by a half-unit with the type of a large, central S C – again signed by Vespasian, and now imitated on the As of the orichalcum series with the wreath of the As of Antioch (RPC I 4849-50).
The whole of this series memorializes not Vespasian the conquering general (IVDAEA CAPTA, VICTORIA AVGVSTI), but the man. His re-use of earlier coin types is well-known; here he re-uses his own, harking back to his career just prior to his final success in seizing the empire. And the series was struck in 74 A.D., co-terminous with the celebration of Vespasian’s first quinquennium.'

Curtis Clay has a few objections to Buttrey's theory as to why the issue was struck: 'As far as I am aware, there is nothing "astonishing" about Vespasian's "signing" of the two coins of Sepphoris. EΠI followed by the governor's name appeared frequently on Roman provincial coins, meaning simply, "Struck while the man named was governor". So there was no evident reason for Vespasian to consider it extraordinary that he had been named as governor of Syria on coins of Sepphoris struck for Nero near the end of his reign (Year 14), and no evident reason why he should have referred to the Sepphoris coins in his orichalcum issue struck at Rome five years later. It seems quite probable that Vespasian never even noticed his name on the coins of Sepphoris, and certainly very few Romans in the West will ever have seen such a coin, though Buttrey thinks the orichalcum coins were struck for circulation in the West in 74 in order to recall precisely those Sepphoris coins with their reference to Vespasian some months before his accession. Why waste coin types on references that were inconsequential, and that nobody was likely to comprehend?'

If Buttrey's argument is wrong it brings us back to the original question - why was an Eastern flavoured coinage struck for circulation in the West? Perhaps it may be nothing more than Vespasian paying homage to the part of the world that elevated him. This is a fairly rare example with left facing portrait, which, ironically, in this series are much more commonly struck for Vespasian than for Titus Caesar. Missing from the BM and only one example cited in RPC.

Dark patina and fine style.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/22/20 at 08:07FlaviusDomitianus: Nice addition, congrats!

RIC 0650 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 10.02g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIAN COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA NAVALIS; S C in field; Victory stg. r. on prow, with wreath and palm
RIC 650 (R). BMC -. BNC 708.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, June 2020.

Vespasian's moneyers first began striking this Victoria Navalis type in 71 during his great bronze issue. The type traditionally has been attributed to the so-called naval victory Vespasian and Titus won on Lake Gennesaret (the Sea of Galilee) during the Jewish War and was repeatedly struck throughout Vespasian's reign for both of them, perhaps indicating how important it was to their military gravitas. It is then quite remarkable the type was also chosen as an appropriate reverse for Domitian Caesar, who was in his late teens and living in Rome when the naval battle took place. He was hardly in a position to offer any involvement! Perhaps it best can best be viewed as the young prince sharing in the family's collective military glory. This rare example from 73 is the earliest appearance of the type for Domitian. Missing from the BM collection.

Worn, but in good metal and well centred.1 commentsDavid Atherton07/14/20 at 21:38Jay GT4: Nice rarity

RIC 0143 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 27.31g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT; S C in field; Titus and Domitian stg. l. and r., with spears; Titus (to r.) also with parazonium, Domitian with roll
RIC 143 (R). BMC 528. BNC 473.
Acquired from NumisCorner, June 2020.

An iconic dynastic sestertius struck during Vespasian's great bronze issue of 71. The type was struck both at Rome and Lyon (ancient Lugdunum) and announced Vespasian's intention to found a dynasty. Mattingly in BMCRE II calls it a 'famous' type placing the figures on the reverse as Titus on the left and Domitian on the right. While that is the conventional numismatic placement for the two Caesares, here we see the figure on the right holding a parazonium an attribute of an imperator, which of the two could only be Titus. Conversely, the figure on the left is holding something smaller (a book scroll?) that does not appear to be a parazonium. The reverse legend corresponds for this placement of the figures with the first half of the legend CAES AVG F DES for Domitian on the left, the second half IMP AVG F COS DES IT for Titus on the right. The legend has caused confusion over the years with some numismatists creating the phantom title Designatus Imperator for Titus. The title COS is implied for Domitian after DES in the legend as a kind of numismatic shorthand. Gunnar Seelentag attempted to clear up the matter in his Numismatic Chronicle, Vol 167 (2007) article 'Titus and the Supposed Title Designatus Imperator', but doubts remain. Curtis Clay has proposed that the traditional view of Titus on the left and Domitian on the right is correct, pointing out that both are holding a parazonium, theorising Titus's is hidden behind his body with only the handle showing. His arguments in full can be read here: http://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=44488.0 The reverse type itself is fairly rare with only a handful of specimens coming to market each decade. Flavian dynastic types are far more common in silver.

Fantastic early style portrait.5 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 21:59Nemonater: Beautiful!

RIC 1568 VespasianÆ Semis, 4.10g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP•VESP•AVG•P•M•T•P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: ANTIOCHIA; Bust of city-goddess, r.
RIC 1568 (R). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1988 (6 spec.).
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, June 2020.

Traditionally, the remarkable bronze issue this rather odd semis is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. Ted Buttrey in the unpublished RIC II.1 Addenda wrote - 'RIC 756-767 are irregular Dupondii, which should be taken together with Asses, semisses and quadrantes (RIC 1564-1581), forming together a single extraordinary issue in four denominations, distinct in typology and metal, as well as overall character from the regular coinage of the year. Although Eastern in aspect and reverse type, the circulation area of the dupondii is almost exclusively Gaul, Germany, Italy – i.e. the West, with scarcely any penetration of the East. Finds of the smaller denominations are rarely attested anywhere, East or West. The citations in RPC II are drawn almost entirely from Western collections, and total: Western - 108, Eastern - 4.

The Eastern finds appear to be simply the débris of Mediterranean circulation. Previously the series had been attributed to Commagene (BMCRE II, pp.217-222), then as a likelihood to Antioch (e.g. RPC II 1982-2005). The correct attribution to Rome is proved by mules of the dupondii with regular issues (Buttrey, “Vespasian’s Roman Orichalcum: An Unrecognized Celebratory Coinage” in David M. Jacobson and Nikos Kokkinos, Judaea and Rome in Coins, 65 CBE – 135 CE (2012).'

I think it quite extraordinary that the Rome mint would produce a coin blatantly featuring a provincial city-goddess that was intended for circulation in the West. Vespasian's fondness for the region that elevated him to the purple must have been strong indeed! The heavy use of dots in the obverse legend is a curiosity as well.

Lovely desert patina and fine style.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 05:46ancientdave: Great find!

RIC 0245 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 24.02g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: SALVS AVGVSTA; S C in exergue; Salus std. l. with patera and sceptre
RIC 245 (C2). BMC 574. BNC 533.
Acquired from Golden Rule Enterprises Coins, February 2020.

A fairly common sestertius Salus type from the great bronze issue of 71. According to Mattingly in BMCRE II this Salus type may perhaps represents 'the salvation conferred by the imperial system', presumably after the upheavals of the Civil War. Salus here symbolises the health and welfare of the Roman state, not the person of the emperor himself.

Superb portrait in good metal.

6 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 05:30ancientdave: Excellent!

RIC 1578 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 4.57g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: CAESAR DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 1578 (R2). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 2003 (0 Spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, January 2020.

An extremely rare orichalcum As struck for Domitian Caesar under Vespasian in 74 AD. Traditionally the issue has been attributed to various Eastern mints, however, recent scholarship has shown that it was produced in Rome. Style, die axis, metal, and circulation pattern all point to a Western coinage, despite the 'Eastern' flavour of the reverse designs. T. Buttrey in the RIC II.1 Addenda wrote: 'There is nothing like this series in the whole of Roman imperial coinage. It is a deliberate act of Orientalism, imposing the flavour of the East on a Western coinage'. This particular As featuring a right facing portrait is rarer than the much more common left facing portrait. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Beautiful patina and fine style.5 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 05:26ancientdave: Very cool!

RIC 1574 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Semis, 3.31g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: T•CAES•IMP•TR•POT; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: ANTIOCHIA; Bust of city-goddess, r.
RIC 1574 (C). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1997 (10 spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, January 2020.

Traditionally, the issue this rather interesting semis is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. Ted Buttrey writing in the RIC II.1 Addenda commented extensively on it. Because both the Addenda has yet to see the light of day and T. Buttrey's thoughts on the subject are important (and indeed likely correct), I have largely quoted it in full here with some minor editing.

'RIC 756-767 are irregular Dupondii, which should be taken together with Asses, semisses and quadrantes (RIC 1564-1581), forming together a single extraordinary issue in four denominations, distinct in typology and metal, as well as overall character from the regular coinage of the year. Although Eastern in aspect and reverse type, the circulation area of the dupondii is almost exclusively Gaul, Germany, Italy – i.e. the West, with scarcely any penetration of the East. Finds of the smaller denominations are rarely attested anywhere, East or West. The citations in RPC II are drawn almost entirely from Western collections, and total: Western - 108, Eastern - 4.

The Eastern finds appear to be simply the débris of Mediterranean circulation. Previously the series had been attributed to Commagene (BMCRE II, pp.217-222), then as a likelihood to Antioch (e.g. RPC II 1982-2005). The correct attribution to Rome is proved by mules of the dupondii with regular issues (Buttrey, “Vespasian’s Roman Orichalcum: An Unrecognized Celebratory Coinage” in David M. Jacobson and Nikos Kokkinos, Judaea and Rome in Coins, 65 CBE – 135 CE (2012).
The series had nothing to do with Syria or with the East at all, yet it was purposefully designed to appear non-Roman: the suppression of the traditional reverse sub-inscription S C throughout; the suppression of the radiate crown of the Dupondius; the shifting of the consular dating from the obv. to the rev.; the striking of all four denominations in orichalcum; and most obviously the selection of rev. dies which reek of the East (while admitting that they are not Eastern, see on the semis the bust of the city-goddess accompanied by the Latin legend ANTIOCHIA, in imitation of the type actually struck there with the Greek legend ΑΝΤΙΟΧΕΩΝ – SNG Cop Antioch 99-103, 112, etc. ).
There is nothing like this series in the whole of Roman imperial coinage. It is a deliberate act of Orientalism, imposing the flavour of the East on a Western coinage. The key to its understanding is the reverse type of the dupondius, two crossed cornuacopiae with a winged caduceus between. It replicates the type of an obscure issue of the Galilean city of Sepphoris, an issue which had been, astonishingly, signed by Vespasian himself (ΕΠΙ ΟΥΕCΠΑCΙΑΝΟΥ, “on the authority of…”) when on duty there in the last days of Nero.

The whole of this series memorializes not Vespasian the conquering general (IVDAEA CAPTA, VICTORIA AVGVSTI), but the man. His re-use of earlier coin types is well-known; here he re-uses his own, harking back to his career just prior to his final success in seizing the empire. And the series was struck in 74 A.D., co-terminous with the celebration of Vespasian’s first quinquennium.'

I think it quite extraordinary that the Rome mint would produce a coin blatantly featuring a provincial city-goddess that was intended for circulation in the West. Vespasian's fondness for the region that elevated him to the purple must have been strong indeed! The heavy use of dots in the obverse legend is a curiosity as well.

Good style and well centred.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 05:25ancientdave: Great find!

RIC 0159 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 26.69g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to l. Captive stg. r.; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass; both figures surrounded by arms
RIC 159 (C3). BMC 532. BNC 490, pl. XLIV (same dies). Hendin 1500.
Acquired from Witter Coins, eBay, October 2019. Ex Triton V, 16 January 2002, lot 1913 (From the Robert Schonwalter Collection). Ex Worner List 1, January 1951, no. 394. Formerly in NGC holder #4683650-005, with grade 'F', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

Ambition sighed: she found it vain to trust
The faithless column and the crumbling bust;
Huge moles, whose shadow stretched from shore to shore,
Their ruins perished, and their place no more!
Convinced, she now contracts her vast design,
And all her triumphs shrink into a coin.
A narrow orb each crowded conquest keeps,
Beneath her palm here sad Judea weeps. -
Alexander Pope, To Mr. Addison, Occasioned by his Dialogues on Medals II. 19-26

For Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen ... Thy men shall fall by the sword and thy mighty in the war. And her gates shall lament and mourn, and she being desolate shall sit upon the ground - Isaiah III.25-26.

In 70 AD Jerusalem was besieged and sacked and the Temple razed by the Roman forces commanded by Titus Caesar. The following year a massive joint Triumph was held in Rome for Vespasian and Titus to celebrate their successful conclusion of the Jewish Rebellion. Coins were also issued to commemorate their victory. These so called 'Judaea Capta' coins first appeared in late 70 just after the fall of Jerusalem in August, both in the precious metals and at first sparingly in bronze. It wasn't until 71, the year of the triumph, that the bronze coinage came into its own with a whole host of 'Judaea Capta' types. Probably the most famous of these depicts the ubiquitous date palm with a standing bound captive to the left and a seated Judaea to the right, both surrounded by arms. The second bronze issue of 71 saw these produced in massive quantities (Colin Kraay knew of 23 reverse dies paired with this obverse). Although the overall allegorical meaning of the reverse is readily apparent, what each individual device specifically symbolises is open to debate. We are on firm ground to assume the date palm represents the land of Judaea as H. Mattingly proposed in BMCRE II (although J. M. Cody speculated the palm possibly represents the Roman victory). The motif of the standing captive is copied from earlier Republican coin issues, reminiscent of the Gaulish and Spanish captives on those Republican types. His dress indicates he is a barbarian from outside the boundaries of Roman civilisation. In the spirit of the 'Vercingetorix' denarius, H. St. J. Hart proposed the captive is actually either Simon Bar Giora or John of Gischala(!), the two defeated Jewish commanders. The seated female figure is the personification of Judaea, the daughter of Zion. This figure is frequently seen on the various designs of the series, often paired with the palm tree. Her attitude of mourning and dejection leaves little doubt she is lamenting the defeat of her people.

Modern viewers see this as a forlorn scene of defeat, however, to the Roman coin designers the images are meant to convey victory over a worthy foe. The Jewish War was an important event for the fledgling Flavian dynasty - in essence it gave them the legitimacy to rule. The ensuing propaganda onslaught after the 'Gotterdammerung' fall of Jerusalem is awe inspiring. The slight of hand the Flavian regime pulled off which transformed defeated rebel provincials into a foreign menace is truly amazing. The coins were a major part of the regime's propaganda commemorating Vespasian's defeat of the Jews and saving the empire. Their efforts paid off, for even today this 'Judaea Capta' type is one of the most iconic and recognised reverses in the whole of Roman coinage.

Fantastic surfaces in good metal. A beauty in hand.8 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 04:59ancientdave: Awesome!!

RIC 0064 VespasianÆ As, 9.15g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: T ET DOMITIAN CAESARES PRIN IVVENT; S C in field; Titus and Domitian riding r., with hands raised
RIC 64 (R2). BMC 750. BNC 469.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, September 2019.

An extremely rare early dynastic As struck during Vespasian's first As issue at Rome. H. Mattingly in the BMCRE mistakenly attributes it to Tarraco, but does express doubt in a footnote. Only one reverse die is known and apparently it was used to produce both dupondii and Asses. This specimen is undoubtedly an As due to the copper composition and the low weight. It is a double die match with the lone specimen in the BM and both examples in the BN. This reverse with Titus and Domitian on horseback (oddly, Cohen has them holding spears) copies a similar type struck on the denarius and boldly announces Vespasian's intention to found a dynasty.

Interestingly, this early style portrait features an aegis, an added level of prestige.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 04:44ancientdave: Bravo!

RIC 0308 VespasianÆ As, 8.65g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Trophy; to r., Judaea std. r., hands bound behind back
RIC 308 (R). BMC 608/791. BNC -. Hendin 1555.
Acquired from Vaughn Coins, June 2020. Ex Ira Ettinger collection.

This As is patterned off the two famous Judaea Capta denarius types struck the previous year - the trophy and palm tree designs - combining elements from both. On the As Judaea sits with her hands bound behind her back in front of a trophy, on the denarius trophy version her hands are free and she is mourning - only the variant with palm tree shows Judaea bound. IVDEA CAPTA is spelled out on the As, the denarii place IVDAEA in exergue (note the different spelling between the two denominations). Also, the trophy denarii are quite common, the Asses are very rare. H. Mattingly erroneously attributed some of the asses to Tarraco in BMCRE II (BMC 791), all are actually Rome mint products. Missing from the Paris collection.

Fine style portrait and nicely centred.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 22:19ancientdave: Great reverse, excellent portrait!

RIC 1208 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 24.14g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., globe at point of bust
Rev: SALVS AVGVSTA; S C in exergue; Salus std. l. with patera and sceptre
RIC 1208 (C). BMC 827. BNC 822.
Acquired from eBay, April 2020. Ex Pegasi Auction 42, 12 November 2019, lot 488. Formerly in NGC holder 5872968-004, grade 'Ch F', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

In 77-78 Lugdunum (modern Lyon) after a hiatus of several years struck a decently sized issue of bronze coinage, presumably to address a shortage in the Western provinces. The types copy those common to Rome and feature distinctive 'blocky' portraits. Sestertii from the issue are quite rare today, with this Salus type perhaps being the most common. According to Mattingly in BMCRE II the Salus type seen here perhaps represents 'the salvation conferred by the imperial system'. Salus here symbolises the health and welfare of the Roman state, not the person of the emperor himself.

Fine Lugdunese style portrait in good metal.4 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 21:57ancientdave: Awesome Lyon style!!

RIC 1228 VespasianÆ As, 10.19g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS VIII P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVSTI; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l., with scales and rod
RIC 1228 (C3). BMC 842. BNC 839.
Ex eBay, 6 February 2020.

Vespasian inherited a financial mess upon his accession in 69. His top priority was putting the state on a sound financial footing. Symbolic of that righting of the empire was the common reverse type of Aequitas. Aequitas holding her scales and measuring rod was probably based on a cult image of the deity. She first shows up as an imperial virtue on the coinage under Galba, a virtue that Vespasian was eager to emulate. This As from late in the reign was struck at Lugdunum (modern Lyon) in a fairly substantial issue, likely produced to rectify a bronze coinage shortage in the Western provinces.

Nice style and good metal.1 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 21:14ancientdave: Love the portrait!

RIC 0266 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 13.83g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVGVSTI; S C in exergue; Concordia std. l., with patera and cornucopiae
RIC 266 (C). BMC 589. BNC 565.
Acquired from Romae Aeternae Numismatics, December 2019.

A very common Concordia dupondius struck for Vespasian during the great bronze issue of 71. This type comes in two variants: one with an altar and one without. Both have the same frequency rating of 'common'. Mattingly in BMCRE speculated the type 'stands for harmony in the imperial house'.

Decent standard style and well centred. 3 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 19:13ancientdave: Quite attractive!

RIC 1044 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 14.29g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIAN COS V; Bust of Domitian, laureate, draped, r.
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l., with corn ears and poppy and sceptre
RIC 1044 (R). BMC p. 176 note. BNC 790.
Acquired from ANE, November 2019.

Dupondii struck for Domitian as Caesar under Vespasian lack a radiate crown and are unusually laureate and quite rare. This Ceres type struck in 77 or 78 was part of series of coins likely advertising some sort of agricultural programme. Same dies as the Paris specimen (BNC 790).

Solid style with dark patina.6 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 19:09ancientdave: Very nice!

RIC 0772 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Pax, bare to the waist, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hand on lap
RIC 772 (C3). BMC 161. RSC 366. BNC 139.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, March 2003.

One of Vespasian's most common Pax types continuing a major theme in his coinage of peace and prosperity, courtesy of the Flavian house. Probably the most common denarius type struck for Vespasian.

This coin has sentimental value for being the first Flavian denarius I ever purchased. A nice one at that too.2 commentsDavid Atherton06/23/20 at 02:57Jay GT4: Great first Flavian!

RIC 0276 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 13.34g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.
Rev: PAXS AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with cornucopiae, setting fire to arms
RIC 276 (R2). BMC 590 corr. (PAXS). BNC -.
Acquired from Canadian Coin Currency, June 2020.

An extremely rare dupondius struck during Vespasian's great bronze issue of 71 featuring Pax setting fire to a pile of (Jewish) arms. It is so rare that only one die pair has been recorded for this Pax type on the dupondius. It is more frequently seen on the sestertius, and even then rarely so. The unusual reverse legend featuring the odd spelling of 'PAXS' is also only encountered here. An RIC footnote mentions that on some specimens the 'S' is obliterated (as on the BM example), however, this coin clearly shows it. This highly symbolic reverse, possibly based on a composition from the Augustan period, first appeared on the coinage of Galba and was later adopted by Vespasian.4 commentsDavid Atherton06/13/20 at 19:51quadrans: I agree nice...

RIC 1156 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 12.79g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: SECVRITAS AVGVSTI; S C in exergue; Securitas std. r., head resting on raised arm, with sceptre; to r., altar and torch
RIC 1156 (R). BMC 808. BNC -.
Acquired from Cooper Coins, eBay, May 2020.

Lugdunum (modern Lyon) struck a fairly large issue of aes coinage during the great bronze issue of 71. Most of the reverse types copy those produced at Rome, however, unique to the mint is this variant of the seated Securitas type showing Securitas resting her head on her hand in a relaxed pose - no doubt based on a cult image. Mattingly observed in the BMCRE 'The type of Securitas was not without reason popular in Gaul after the terrors of the revolt.' (p. lxi) Obverse die match with the BM specimen, missing from Paris.

Nice 'desert' patina in good style.4 commentsDavid Atherton06/08/20 at 14:21okidoki: Congrats very nice

RIC 0308 VespasianÆ As, 8.65g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Trophy; to r., Judaea std. r., hands bound behind back
RIC 308 (R). BMC 608/791. BNC -. Hendin 1555.
Acquired from Vaughn Coins, June 2020. Ex Ira Ettinger collection.

This As is patterned off the two famous Judaea Capta denarius types struck the previous year - the trophy and palm tree designs - combining elements from both. On the As Judaea sits with her hands bound behind her back in front of a trophy, on the denarius trophy version her hands are free and she is mourning - only the variant with palm tree shows Judaea bound. IVDEA CAPTA is spelled out on the As, the denarii place IVDAEA in exergue (note the different spelling between the two denominations). Also, the trophy denarii are quite common, the Asses are very rare. H. Mattingly erroneously attributed some of the asses to Tarraco in BMCRE II (BMC 791), all are actually Rome mint products. Missing from the Paris collection.

Fine style portrait and nicely centred.3 commentsDavid Atherton06/08/20 at 00:36Jay GT4: Iconic. A must have for the ancient collector

RIC 0736 VespasianÆ Quadrans, 2.79g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP VESPASIAN AVG; Rudder on globe
Rev: P M TR P P P COS V; S C in field; Caduceus, winged
RIC 736 (R). BMC 706. BNC 726.
Acquired from The Time Machine, eBay, May 2020.

The quadrans in the early imperial period typically lacked an imperial portrait. Tariffed at a quarter of an As, the denomination was possibly deemed too lowly by mint officials to warrant a portrait. They were struck haphazardly and functioned primarily as an urban low value coinage in Rome and central Italy. The quadrans was the typical fee for entry into the baths, a urinal, or for a tryst in a cheap brothel. Being of rather low value quadrantes were not typically hoarded and thus are relatively scarce today being virtually absent from site finds outside central and south-central Italy (in contrast, over 1,827 quadrantes have been found at Pompeii). The rudder on globe can be explained as a symbol of the 'rector orbis' and its pairing with the winged caduceus 'points to the commercial prosperity brought by good government' (BMC II, pp. li, and liii). The COS V issue is the first appearance of the type under Vespasian.

Dark reddish brown patina and nicely centred. A decent example of the type! 1 commentsDavid Atherton05/22/20 at 13:40Jay GT4: Nice little piece

RIC 0328 VespasianÆ As, 10.91g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTOR AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory adv. l. to place shield on trophy; below, Judaea std. l.
RIC 332 (R2). BMC 615. BNC -. Hendin 1556b
Acquired from Witter Coins, eBay, May 2020. Formerly in NGC holder 4683650-004, grade 'F', strike 4/5, surface 3/5.

This is a not so common 'Judaea Capta' As. The type of Victory and trophy with Judaea seated below has several variant reverse legends on the As, many of which are quite rare. This example has the unique reverse legend 'VICTOR AVGVSTI', which only appears on this one variant. Although lacking a 'Capta' legend, this reverse certainly refers to the recently concluded Jewish War - the defeated captive personifying Judaea sitting at the base of the trophy strongly declares the type's meaning under no uncertain terms. Missing from the extensive Paris collection.

Worn but nicely centred.

2 commentsDavid Atherton05/15/20 at 15:49FlaviusDomitianus: Amazing rarity, congrats!

RIC 1290 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 10.03g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS V; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 1290 (C3). BMC 873. BNC 885.
Acquired from Redoubt Numismatics, eBay, April 2020.

The Flavian provincial branch mint at Lugdunum (modern Lyon) resumed production in 77-78 after a lengthy hiatus, presumably to address a bronze coinage shortage in the Western provinces. Coins were issued for Vespasian and both of his sons, with reverse types often shared between them. By far the most common type struck for Domitian Caesar was Spes, the goddess of hope. She is seen in her standard pose with lifted skirt and holding a flower, probably based on a familiar cult image.

A handsome portrait in good Lugdunese style.2 commentsDavid Atherton05/08/20 at 14:48quadrans: Nice piece.. Smile

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