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RIC 0821 VespasianÆ As, 11.99g
Rome mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG COS VI; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVST; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l., with scales and rod
RIC 821 (R). BMC -. BNC 739.
Ex Savoca Blue 202, 23 March 2024, lot 375.

Vespasian's bronze coinage output in 75 was very meagre. Even this common Aequitas type is considered rare in RIC. Obverse die match with the Oxford and Paris specimens.

Uncleaned.2 commentsDavid AthertonApr 17, 2024

RIC 0320 VespasianÆ As, 8.82g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S C in field; Aquila between two standards, all on prows
RIC 320 (R). BMC 613. BNC 591.
Acquired from CGB, March 2024.

The aquila between two standards type was struck early in Vespasian's reign to honour the loyalty of the legions. The aquila, which featured an eagle clutching a thunderbolt, was the most important standard of any legion. With the recent successful completion of the Civil War and Jewish rebellion, the immense value of the legion's support is not lost on Vespasian! The type was later revived under Titus and Domitian for their cistophori.2 commentsDavid AthertonApr 15, 2024

RIC 1187 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 10.60g
Lyon mint, 72 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: FORTVNAE REDVCI; S C in field; Fortuna stg. l., with branch and rudder on globe and cornucopiae
RIC 1187 (C). BMC 815. BNC 815.
Acquired from CGB, March 2024.

Struck in 72, this Fortuna 'home-bringer' type commemorates Vespasian and Titus's safe return to Rome after the Jewish War. She is depicted here with her rudder competently steering the fate of the world. The cornucopiae she holds symbolises prosperity. A fairly common variety of the type from Lugdunum.3 commentsDavid AthertonApr 10, 2024

RIC 1031 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 10.74g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR VESPASIANVS TR P COS VI; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 1031 (R). BMC -. BNC 784.
Acquired from CGB, March 2024.

Spes, the goddess of hope, is seen here as an 'heir apparent' type. She is represented on Roman coins as a young girl, reminiscent of earlier Greek cult statues depicting Elpis. H. Mattingly in BMCRE II says 'the flower held by Spes is an opening bud, she is raising her skirt in order to hasten forward'. Spes occurs quite commonly under Vespasian and is frequently paired up with all three Flavians as a hopeful expression of future dynastic success. This variety struck for Titus Caesar in 77-78 is quite scarce and is much more common from the Lugdunum mint. Missing from the BM.2 commentsDavid AthertonApr 08, 2024

RIC 085 Domitian as Caesar [Titus] Engraver's ErrorÆ As?, 11.03g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGST (sic); S C in field; Pax stg. l., leaning on column, with caduceus and branch
RIC 85 (R2, note p. 204, this coin). BMC 747 (Vesp.). BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 82. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Roman Lode VAuction, 2004.

Titus' first issue of bronze coinage in 79 was quite meager, all are fairly rare today. This first issue Domitian as Caesar bronze is either a dupondius or as - the weight suggests the former, the colour of the metal (copperish) the latter. RIC catalogues this issue under Titus, though it is possible it was struck prior to Vespasian's death in June. The reverse legend features an engraver's error - AVGST instead of AVGVST, cited in RIC.

NB: It must be mentioned that engraving errors during Titus' reign were extremely rare.4 commentsDavid AthertonApr 03, 2024

RIC 0186 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 24.63g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax std. l., with branch and sceptre
RIC 186 (R2, this coin). BMC -. BNC 521.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 10. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Schulman 254, 11-12 November 1971, lot 3376. Ex Dutch Royal Coin Cabinet, The Hague.

An extremely rare sestertius variety featuring Pax seated on the reverse. Normally on Vespasian's bronze coins she is seen standing or leaning on a column. The provenance presented quite a puzzle. Clay writes 'same dies' as the RIC plate coin from the Hague collection, but clearly it is the same piece! The Hague collection was incorporated into the Geldmuseum of Utretch, which in turn was closed in 2013. Most of the Geldmuseum coins were sent to the Dutch National Bank where they reside today. Clay may have purchased the coin in 1971 via Schulman auction 254 which listed this coin (lot 3376) from the Dutch Royal Coin Cabinet. RIC erroneously assumed the piece was still part of the Royal Cabinet collection when it was transferred to the Geldmuseum! The auction provenance was either forgotten or lost.

High relief portrait in fine style.3 commentsDavid AthertonApr 01, 2024

RIC 125 DomitianÆ Quadrans, 1.97g
Rome Mint, 81-82 AD
Obv: IMP DOMIT AVG; Head of Minerva, helmeted, r.
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 125 (C). BMC 486. BNC -.
Acquired from Gert Boersema, February 2024.

A fairly common early Domitianic quadrans, struck either in 81 or early 82. The quadrans in the early imperial period typically lacked an imperial portrait, here instead we have Domitian's patron deity Minerva on the obverse. 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).

Honest example with original patina.2 commentsDavid AthertonMar 27, 2024

RIC 105 Domitian Æ Sestertius, 26.73g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P; S C in field; Minerva stg. l., with spear
RIC 105 (C2). BMC 274. BNC 285.
Acquired from Classic World Coins, February 2024.

Minerva's prominence on Domitian's coinage first showed up on his early bronzes produced in 81-82 before she dominated his denarii. While Domitian's initial denarius output is dominated by the carry-over pulvinar types from Titus, his first two issues of sestertii have a more personal touch with the reverses featuring his patron deity. This common sestertius struck in early 82, just prior to the mint's overhaul later the same year, demonstrates that the finest engravers were not just reserved for Domitian's aurei. A superb portrait and fine reverse.2 commentsDavid AthertonMar 24, 2024

RIC 736 Domitian AR Denarius, 3.16g
Rome mint, 92 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minverva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 736 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Tater's Relics, eBay, 14 February 2024.

Domitian struck the same series of four Minerva types for his denarii regularly every year from 83 onwards. Some issues are more rare than others - a few are very rare. This coin is from a very rare issue struck towards the end of summer 92 and can be dated by the TR P XI and IMP XXII, an exceedingly rare combination. This series commemorating his 22nd imperial acclamation was most likely awarded for a victory against the Sarmatians and Suevi near the end of the campaigning season just before he became TR P XII on 14th September. The rarity of this dating combination indicates how tight the window was for this issue's production. Struck in such haste, the second 'I' in the imperial acclamation date is often squeezed in on reused dies from the previous issue (as is the case with the present coin). Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.5 commentsDavid AthertonMar 21, 2024

RIC 789A DomitianAR Denarius, 3.44g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XV; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 789A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex JLB Coins, eBay, 7 February 2024. Formerly in NGC holder #4184475-010, with grade Ch VF.

A second known example of the M3 Minerva type from the 95-96 denarius issue with aegis portrait. Domitian's aegis portraits on denarii were more commonly struck in 84 and 85, sparingly so afterwards. The Rome mint was experimenting with new reverse designs and portrait types for the denarius issues during the last year of the reign. Perhaps the reintroduction of the aegis may have been part of this new programme? Of course we shall never know - Domitian's assassination in September 96 cut short any experimentation with his coinage. This rare variant only came to light recently and has been added to the RIC II.1 Addenda as RIC 789A.5 commentsDavid AthertonMar 18, 2024

RPC 2649 DomitianÆ Obol, 5.12g
Alexandria mint, 91-92 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ΔΟΜΙΤ ϹƐΒ ΓƐΡΜ; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev: LΙA; Dolphin coiled round anchor
RPC 2649 (13 spec.). Emmett 308.11. Dattari-Savio 600.
Acquired from Herakles, January 2024. Ex Naville Auction 76, 2 October 2022, lot 183.

A decently rare Alexandrian obol from Domitian's regnal year 11. The dolphin is the totem animal of Poseidon and likely can be viewed in that context here. One cannot help but be reminded of an identical dolphin and anchor pulvinar type struck previously by Titus and Domitian between 80-82 at Rome on the denarius. This coin is cited in the RPC online database. https://rpc.ashmus.ox.ac.uk/coin/4384754 commentsDavid AthertonMar 13, 2024

RIC 503A TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.03g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAESAR DIVI VESP F AVG P M; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503A (R2). BMC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 96. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Savoca Blue E9, 15 July 2018, lot 965.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends, and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. This rare dupondius features a variant obverse legend previously unattested at this mint. A recent discovery, just two specimens are cited by the RIC II.1 Addenda, Curtis Clay had two others ... so possibly only four known. Clay proposes his two former specimens, which share an obverse die, were struck at a separate eastern mint rather than the 'Thracian' one.

3 commentsDavid AthertonMar 11, 2024

RPC 1413 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ19, 3.92g
Dorylaeum (Phrygia) mint, before 79 AD, Ti. Catius Silius Italicus proconsul
Obv: ΤΙΤΟΣ ΚΑΙΣΑΡ; Head of Titus, laureate, r.
Rev: ΙΤΑΛΙΚΩ ΑΝΘΥΠΑΤΩ ΔΟΡΥΛΑΕΩΝ; Zeus std. l., holding thunderbolt and sceptre
RPC 1413 (8 spec.).
Acquired from collectamoneta, eBay, January 2024.

Dorylaeum first struck coins under Vespasian during the proconsulship of Ti. Catius Silius Italicus sometime before 79. Two denominations are known - 24 mm for Vespasian and 19 mm for Titus Caesar. Qualitative metal analysis shows them to be brass. A local civic issue that is somewhat scarce today. 2 commentsDavid AthertonMar 06, 2024

RIC 1144 Vespasian VariantÆ Dupondius, 12.58g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PAX AVG; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with patera over altar and branch and caduceus
RIC 1144 var. (Radiate portrait). BMC -. BNC 803 var. (same).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 88. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex roman-num, eBay, 19 June 2011.

An early Pax type struck in 71 unique to the Lyon mint. H. Mattingly in BMCRE writes 'The type of Pax sacrificing, which is peculiar to Lugdunum, conveys the thought of thanksgiving for peace and prosperity (cp. the caduceus held by Pax) restored.' At Rome a similar reverse was produced sans altar. The propaganda value of Pax for the new Flavian dynasty after the Civil War and Jewish Rebellion cannot be underestimated. Unique with laureate portrait, RIC records this variety only with a radiate bust. Same obverse die as BNC 801.2 commentsDavid AthertonMar 04, 2024

RIC 0928 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 13.42g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIAN COS IV; Bust of Domitian, laureate, draped, bearded, r.
Rev: FELICITAS PVBLICA; S C in field; Felicitas stg. l., with caduceus and cornucopiae
RIC 928 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Aegean, January 2024. Ex Ephesus Numismatics.

Domitian as Caesar's dupondii under Vespasian are typically 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. This rare variety with the COS date rendered as 'IV' instead of the much more commonly seen 'IIII' is missing from both the BM and Paris collections. RIC cites only 2 examples - one from a 1980 Lanz sale, the other from a private collection. An obverse die match with the RIC plate coin.2 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 28, 2024

RIC 0820 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 11.24g
Rome mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG PM T P COS VI; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.
Rev: VESTA in exergue; S C in field; Vesta std. l., with patera and palladium
RIC 820 (R2). BMC 714A. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, DK-Aureus Numismatics, January 2024.

It's not unusual for the Rome mint to strike coin types that conjure up feelings of familiarity and continuance. Vesta is certainly one of those types and Vespasian's moneyers made full use of her propaganda value. She frequently appears on the coinage with her message of religious piety and security. Her main attribute here is the palladium - a wooden cult image of Pallas Athena which oversees the safety and well being of Rome. This is a decently scarce variety, missing from Paris and rated 'very rare' in RIC.2 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 26, 2024

RIC 1507 VespasianÆ20, 3.89g
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 in field; Victory adv. l., with shield
RIC 1507 (R2). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1477 (0 spec.).
Ex Numismad Auction 12, 5-6 January 2024, lot 817.

Late in Vespasian's reign a rare series of orichalcum bronze coins were struck in Asia Minor at an unknown mint. Although imperial in appearance, the style, weight system, and metal used all point to a mint other than Rome. Due to their extreme rarity today, they could not have been struck for any great length of time (the date cannot be narrowed down any further than Vespasian's COS VIII, 77-78 AD). The types consist of ones variously copied from either Rome or Lugdunum (such as this Victory type) or local provincial issues. A stylistic similarity with the earlier 'o' mint denarii possibly struck at Ephesus has been noted by both RIC and RPC. The entire issue is very rarely encountered in trade. This particular Victory variety is missing from all the major collections.

My assumption is that a piece like this did not have wide circulation beyond the region of mintage. Orichalcum was not used for such small bronze denominations at Rome and would have been a baffling coin to your average Roman pleb. 4 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 21, 2024

RIC 1335 VespasianÆ As, 6.39g
Tarraco (?) mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l. with scales and rod
RIC 1335 (R2, this coin cited). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 86. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Antioch Associates BBS 40, 29 July 2002, lot 109.

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 Aequitas 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. This specimen is cited in RIC from the Clay collection.1 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 19, 2024

RIC 302 Domitian Æ As, 11.64g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IOVI CONSERVAT; S C in field; Jupiter stg. l., with thunderbolt and sceptre
RIC 302 (C). BMC 315A. BNC 336.
Ex Originalskincoins, eBay, January 2024.

Domitian's bronze mint after a brief hiatus in 83 returned the following year with a slate of new reverse designs. This relatively scarce type showing a standing Jupiter appears for the first time on the asses in 84. It would later be discontinued after 86. With the legend IOVI CONSERVAT, it symbolises the god as Domitian's divine protector. Although rated as 'common' in RIC, this variety of the type struck in 85 is not often encountered in trade. The portrait is a fine example of the Rome mint's superb mid-period Domitianic style. 2 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 14, 2024

RIC 200 TitusÆ Dupondius, 10.39g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, l.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 200 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Lukas Kalchhauser, December 2023.

The various stock Pax types struck for Titus are carry-overs from Vespasian's reign and are normally seen on Titus' sestertii and asses. This is a rare variety of the standing Pax type struck for the dupondii. She is seen here holding a cornucopiae instead of the much more common caduceus. The left facing portrait variant is much scarcer than the right facing variety. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.2 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 11, 2024

RPC 1406 VespasianÆ19, 6.57g
Cotiaeum (Phrygia) mint, Tiberius Claudius Varus magistrate
Obv: ΚΟΤΙΑΕΙΣ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΝ ΚΑΙΣΑΡΑ; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: ΕΠΙ ΤΙ ΚΛΑ ΟΥΑΡΟΥ; Zeus (?) stg. l., with hand raised
RPC 1406 (1 spec.).
Acquired from Ken Dorney, December 2023.

Cotiaeum fleetingly produced brass coins during the Flavian period under Vespasian and Domitian. Most varieties are fairly rare, known only from one or two specimens. This undated Zeus standing type was struck by the magistrate Tiberius Claudius Varus. Only one specimen of this Zeus type with left portrait is cited by RPC in the core collections.1 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 07, 2024

RIC 0182 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 23.86g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 182 (R3, this coin). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 9. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex CNG E93, 7 July 2004, lot 83.

A unique Pax variety with aegis portrait. This is the RIC reference coin and an obverse die match with BMC 567 (RIC 200, R3). The rarity of this unique aegis variety indicates the mint was phasing out the more elaborate portrait designs at this point in time.3 commentsDavid AthertonFeb 05, 2024

RIC 331 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 18.64g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: S C in field; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield
RIC 331 (R2). BMC -. BNC 241.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 138. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Lanz eBay, 18 July 2009.

A sestertius struck for Domitian as Caesar under Titus featuring his patron deity Minerva. DIVI VESP F tells us the coin was struck after Vespasian's deification. The date of Vespasian's consecratio is dated by the epigraphic evidence sometime between 8 September 79 and 29 May 80. Nathan T. Elkins has proposed that the opening games of the Colosseum were in honour of Vespasian's deification. If so, this sestertius could not have been struck much earlier than June 80. This Minerva reverse from 'Group 3' is very rare. It is missing from the BM with a footnote in the catalogue (BMC 233) that doubts its existence!1 commentsDavid AthertonJan 31, 2024

RPC 2708 DomitianÆ Drachm, 21.63g
Alexandria mint, 94-95 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙϹ ΘƐΟΥ ΥΙΟϹ ΔΟΜΙΤ ϹƐΒ ΓƐΡΜ; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: Triumphal arch; date LΙΔ
RPC 2708 (6 spec.). Emmett 257.14. Dattari-Savio 542-3.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 505. Ex Shimmer, 1986, lot 118.

'He erected so many and such huge vaulted passage-ways and arches in the various regions of the city, adorned with chariots and triumphal emblems, that on one of them someone wrote in Greek: "enough!" '- Suetonius, Life of Domitian, 13.2.

Thus we begin with a pun. Some nameless wag scrawled ARCI on one of Domitian’s many arches, punning on the similarity between arcus (‘arch’) and the Greek arkei (‘enough’). Suetonius thought it clever enough to pass it along in his Life of Domitian. Domitian was a builder and he did indeed erect many arches throughout the city of Rome and the wider empire. This remarkable drachm struck at Alexandria for Domitian features a grandiose triple-span triumphal arch. The exact location of the structure is unknown. Some scholars have argued it represents a local Alexandrian arch (Price-Trell 1977, Vogt 1924, Handler 1971). F. Kleiner on the other hand convincingly proposes it to be a triumphal arch erected in Rome commemorating Domitian's victory over the Germanic Chatti. That it's a triumphal arch is fairly sound. The rooftop central figure of the emperor driving a triumphal quadriga pulled by six horses, flanked by twin trophies with defeated captives makes it fairly clear the arch was erected with a triumph in mind. The type first appeared on Alexandrian tetradrachms in 86, just a few years after the victory over the Chatti making a connection to that triumph very appealing. How accurate is the depiction? We simply do not know. Quite possibly the Alexandrian engravers based the composition on generic stock triumphal types, perhaps augmented by written descriptions, paintings, or sketches. The arch did not survive antiquity but is replicated on drachms of Trajan and Hadrian, likely repurposed for their own needs (whether it was located in Rome or Alexandria) and seemingly escaped damnatio memoriae destruction. Luckily, the coins survive to give us an idea of what this impressive monument may have looked like.4 commentsDavid AthertonJan 28, 2024

RIC 789 Domitian (2)AR Denarius, 2.96g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XV; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 789 (C2). BMC 234. RSC 291. BNC 208.
Acquired from Aegean, January 2024.

This reverse die was later recycled and struck for the TR P XVI issue and is a die match with BNC 213.

Purchased on the hunch that this could possibly could be RIC 819 due to the reverse die match with the Paris specimen and what appears to be a 'I' engraved above the 'V'. In hand the mystery numeral is just a die flaw.1 commentsDavid AthertonJan 25, 2024

RPC 1311 VespasianÆ27, 8.24g
Sardis (Lydia) mint, Titus Flavius Eisigonos (strategos)
Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚ ΚΑΙϹ ΟΥΕϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΩ; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ΕΠΙ (Τ) ΦΛ ΕΙϹΙΓΟΝΟΥ ϹΑΡΔΙΑΝΩΝ; Pluto and Persephone in quadriga, r.
RPC 1311 (6 spec.).
Acquired from Tom Vossen, November 2023.

The rape, or more accurately abduction, of Prospernia (Persephone in Greek) depicted on the reverse of this Sardian provincial bronze is an infamous scene from Greco-Roman mythology. Here we see Pluto carrying away Prospernia in his chariot. The story of Proserpina explains why there is winter:

'One day, when Proserpina, daughter of Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, was gathering flowers in the fields, she was abducted by Pluto, god of the underworld, and carried off to his kingdom. Ceres was consumed with grief and in anger she scorched the earth, preventing grain from growing and the earth from producing fruit. Forced to intervene, Jupiter negotiated a compromise that provided Proserpina had not eaten anything while in the underworld she would be set free. Pluto however had offered Proserpina part of a pomegranate, which she accepted. The Fates would not allow Proserpina to be fully released, but a settlement was agreed upon by which she would spend part of the year with Pluto in the underworld (winter) and part of the year with her mother Ceres (summer). When Proserpina is with Pluto the earth is barren and cold and when she returns to her mother, Ceres pours forth the blessings of spring to welcome her beloved daughter home.'

The story has been told in paintings and sculpture throughout the ages. During the Renaissance a large Baroque marble group sculpture by Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini titled 'The Rape of Proserpina' most famously immortalised the tale for a modern audience. This Sardian bronze struck under Vespasian, while not exceedingly rare, is seldom encountered in trade.2 commentsDavid AthertonJan 22, 2024

RIC 1017 VespasianÆ Quadrans, 2.17g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP VESP AVG COS VIII; Caduceus, winged, between crossed cornuacopiae
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 1017 (C). BMC 741. BNC 911.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, November 2023.

The quadrans in the early imperial period typically lacked an imperial portrait. Possibly the denomination was deemed so lowly by mint officials that a portrait was considered improper. 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. This crossed cornuacopiae/S C in wreath type was struck for the quadrans in just two issues dated to 76 and 77-78. The obverse copies a similar reverse type struck for the 'eastern flavoured' dupondii in 74.1 commentsDavid AthertonJan 17, 2024

RIC 0519 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Denarius, 3.14g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S P Q R in oak wreath
RIC 519 (R). BMC 119. RSC 264a. BNC -.
Ex Concordia Auction 9, 15 October 2023, lot 406.

Vespasian and Titus Caesar held a joint censorship in 73. This denarius from a rare issue struck earlier that year is one of the first coins to advertise it on the obverse. The SPQR within wreath type, also shared with Vespasian, is extremely scarce for Titus Caesar and rarely encountered in trade. RIC cites only one specimen in the BM (the lone example cited in OCRE and RSC II), but oddly places the frequency rating as just 'rare'. Asearch results produced only the present coin. I believe the RIC rating woefully underrates the rarity of this variety for Titus Caesar. Double die match with the BM specimen.5 commentsDavid AthertonJan 15, 2024

RIC 288 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 25.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 288 (R). BMC 230. BNC 236.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 137. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Acquired from B A Seaby, mid-1960s, with handwritten ticket by David Sear.

A reverse type struck for both Titus and Domitian Caesar symbolising the bountiful prosperity Pax and the emperor have provided. DIVI AVG VESP F tells us the coin was struck after Vespasian's deification. The date of Vespasian's consecratio is dated by the epigraphic evidence sometime between 8 September 79 and 29 May 80. Nathan T. Elkins has proposed that the opening games of the Colosseum were in honour of Vespasian's deification. If so, this sestertius could not have been struck much earlier than June 80. Engraved with a severe Titus-like portrait.2 commentsDavid AthertonJan 10, 2024

RIC 034 Domitian AR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Seat, draped; above, winged thunderbolt
RIC 34 (R3). BMC -. BNC -. RSC -.
Acquired from Laurel Coins, October 2023. Ex Leu Web Auction 26, 8 July 2023, lot 7037 (part).

An early rare 'PONT' denarius struck from Domitian's 3rd denarius issue of 81. The abbreviation 'PONT' for Ponitfex Maximus must have come early in the sequence of titles Domitian employed on his denarii and likely was short lived if its rarity is any indication. The records of the Arval brothers do not show Domitian as Pontifex Maximus by 30 October, so presumably he acquired the title in either November or December. This reverse type from the 3rd group of 81 featuring a draped chair and thunderbolt is likely the pulvinar of Jupiter. Strangely enough TRP is absent from the legends, why this is so I cannot say. It's a puzzling mystery considering the first group of denarii indeed record it. This carry-over pulvinar type originally struck for Titus is perhaps connected to the religious ceremonies for the opening games of the Colosseum. Fourth known specimen, missing from all the major collections.2 commentsDavid AthertonJan 08, 2024

RPC 2216 Domitian Æ18, 4.96g
Ascalon (Judaea) mint, 94-95 AD
Obv: ϹΕΒΑϹ; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev: ΑϹ, ΗϘΡ; War-god Phanebal standing, l., holding harpa in r. hand and small round shield and long palm branch in l. hand
RPC 2216 (17 spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, May 2023. Ex CNG E510, 23 February 2022, lot 576. Ex Dr. Jay M. Galst Collection.

In the years following the devastating Jewish revolt the pro-Roman harbour city of Ascalon produced a series of bronze coins under the Flavians. The coins copy types previously struck under Augustus and Nero. This small denomination bronze struck for Domitian during Ascalon civic year 198 (94-95 AD) depicts Phanebal, the ethnic war-god of Ascalon, a fusion of the Phoenician deities Ba'al and Tanit. He is shown holding a harpa (a sickle like curved sword), palm frond, and shield - all of which are his attributes.2 commentsDavid AthertonJan 03, 2024

RPC 2207 VespasianÆ23, 11.80g
Ascalon (Judaea) mint, 78-79 AD
Obv: ΣΕΒΑΣΤΟΣ; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: ΑΣΚΑΛΩ, ΒΠΡ; Tyche standing, l., on prow with standard and aphlaston; in l. field incense altar; in r. field dove standing l.
RPC 2207 (7 spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, May 2023. Ex CNG E510, 23 February 2022, lot 573. Ex Dr. Jay M. Galst Collection.

In the years after the devastating Jewish revolt the pro-Roman harbour city of Ascalon produced a series of bronze coins under the Flavians. The coins copy types previously struck under Augustus and Nero. Here we see Tyche as a city goddess along with Ascalon's city symbol a dove. Pliny the Elder mentions Ascalon as the only oppidum liberum in the region during the first century AD (NH 5. 68).

NB: An aphlaston is the upward curving stern of an ancient warship.David AthertonJan 01, 2024

RIC 349 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Dupondius/As, 13.52g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 349 (C). BMC -. BNC 249.
Acquired from Savoca, September 2023.

The dupondii struck for Domitian Caesar under Vespasian and Titus have portraits that lack the radiate crown normally associated with that denomination. At times it can be a bit confusing determining if individual specimens are a dupondius or an as. This coin's heavier weight and yellowish hues suggests it is a dupondius. Struck under Titus in 80 or 81 after Vespasian's deification, Spes was a fairly common reverse type under Vespasian, connected to future dynastic hope and harmony. It continued to be struck by Titus and can be viewed as his hope for the future with his chosen heir Domitian. As Mattingly put it: '...the recurring types of Spes suggests that Titus gave Domitian full due as heir to the throne.' Although rated as 'common' in RIC, this variety is missing from the BM's collection.David AthertonDec 27, 2023

RIC 502A DomitianÆ Quadrans, 2.75g
Rome Mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XII; Ceres bust r., wearing wreath of corn ears, draped
Rev: S C in field; Bundle of three poppies and four corn ears
RIC 502A (R3). BMC 370. BNC -.
Acquired from Savoca, September 2023.

Small bronzes such as the quadrans were likely used in minor transactions by the plebs and sported very simple designs with popular motifs, often lacking an imperial portrait. Ceres briefly appeared on the obverse of Domitian's quadrantes in 85-86. She frequently was paired with an appropriate reverse design, such as a bundle of corn ears and poppies as seen on this example. Both the obverse and reverse celebrate Domitian's careful stewardship of the grain supply. This is a fourth known example of the rare variety with DOMITIAN fully spelled out. The other specimens are located in the BM (the only one known at the time of RIC II.1's publication), Paris, and two (!) in Berlin.1 commentsDavid AthertonDec 25, 2023

RIC 1502 Vespasian VariantÆ29, 11.17g
Ephesus (?) mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVGVSTVS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: PONT MAX TR POT P P COS VIII CENS; S C in field; Jupiter std. l., with thunderbolt and sceptre
RIC 1502 var. (obv. head right). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1475 var. (same).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 92. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Lanz, eBay, January 2009.

Late in Vespasian's reign an exceedingly rare series of orichalcum bronze coins were struck in Asia Minor at an unknown mint. Although imperial in appearance, the style, weight system, and metal used all point to a mint other than Rome. Due to their extreme rarity today, they could not have been struck for any great length of time (the date cannot be narrowed down any further than Vespasian's COS VIII, 77-78 AD). The types consist of ones variously copied from either Rome or local provincial issues. A stylistic similarity with the earlier 'o' mint denarii possibly struck at Ephesus has been noted by both RIC and RPC. Here we have a previously unrecorded and unique variant of the Jupiter seated reverse with the obverse portrait facing left instead of right. The piece likely circulated as a dupondius. It was erroneously attributed in the HJB catalogue as 'RIC 1500', which is a Ceres seated type. 1 commentsDavid AthertonDec 19, 2023

RIC 1321 VespasianÆ As, 8.68g
Tarraco (?) mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CAESAR AVG F COS CAESAR AVG F PR; Heads of Titus, bare, r., and Domitian, bare, l., confronting; below, S C
RIC 1321 (R2). BMC 748B. BNC 797.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 84. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Baldwin's, June 1970. Ex Glendining & Co. The V.J.E. Ryan Collection part V, 2 April 1952, lot 2745 (part).

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 dynastic type featuring the confronting busts of Titus and Domitian (copying RIC 16). All the coins from the issue are quite rare indicating they were not struck for any great length of time, perhaps only to address a shortage of bronze coinage in the region. 2 commentsDavid AthertonDec 17, 2023

RIC 1501 VespasianÆ27, 10.94g
Ephesus (?) mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVGVSTVS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONT MAX TR POT P P COS VIII CENS; S C in field; Jupiter stg. l., with thunderbolt and sceptre
RIC 1501 (R2). BMC 893. BNC -. RPC 1474 (1 spec.).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 91. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Leu E17, Pt. 2, 15 August 2021, lot 2361.

Late in Vespasian's reign an exceedingly rare series of orichalcum bronze coins were struck in Asia Minor at an unknown mint. Although imperial in appearance, the style, weight system, and metal used all point to a mint other than Rome. Due to their extreme rarity today, they could not have been struck for any great length of time (the date cannot be narrowed down any further than Vespasian's COS VIII, 77-78 AD). The types consist of ones variously copied from either Rome or local provincial issues. A stylistic similarity with the earlier 'o' mint denarii possibly struck at Ephesus has been noted by both RIC and RPC. This Jupiter standing type may have been intended to circulate as a dupondius (BMCRE attributes it as such).2 commentsDavid AthertonDec 13, 2023

RIC 369/370 Divus Vespasian [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 24.21g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS PATER PAT; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
Cf. RIC 369/370 (for obv./rev.). BMC -. BNC-.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 116. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Biga E9, 24 April 2022, lot 533.

Portrait sestertii of Divus Vespasian are exceedingly rare. Here we have a unique and unpublished variant of the Divus Vespasian Pax type RIC 370. This new variety combines an obverse legend previously known from one specimen (RIC 369) with a variant of a unique Pax reverse type (RIC 370 with AVGVST instead of AVGVSTI). Curtis Clay assigned this issue to Titus' Thracian mint, but I agree with RIC that the style (similar to contemporary Rome mint denarii) and fabric (the reverse flan is concave, a hallmark of the Rome mint) suggests Rome rather than an Eastern provincial mint. Although Vespasian died in June 79, his Divus coins struck under Titus date to 80-81. Nathan Elkins has proposed that Vespasian's consecration was delayed until the Colosseum was completed with the opening games dedicated to him. The Divus coins would have been struck to commemorate the event after mid 80.1 commentsDavid AthertonDec 11, 2023

RIC 1426(5A)Unlisted Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Denarius, 2.78g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMPERATOR T CAESAR AVGVSTI F; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: AVG in oak-wreath, no mint mark
Cf. RIC 1426(5A)4/1426(5A)1. BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Acquired from André Cichos, September 2023. Ex Olympus Numismatik Auction 2, 2 April 2023, lot 271.

A unique and unpublished Titus Caesar AVG in oak wreath denarius from Ephesus struck without a mintmark. This reverse type was previously only attested for the no mintmark issue from an extremely rare Vespasian denarius (recorded in the Addenda as RIC 1426(5A)1). The Ephesian denarius issues struck under Vespasian all have mintmarks, save for the first issue and this tiny issue dated COS III, which is not represented in the new RIC II.1. Ted Buttrey wrote in the RIC II Addenda the following concerning the no mintmark issue:

'I’m not terribly happy about this. It’s a convenient way to draw together several pieces which lack the mintmark, placing them after the completion of the ΘΙ and ΘΥ Groups 3-5 and the inception of Group 6 with ΕΡΗ. But why should they have given up on a mintmark in mid-course, when all of Groups 2-9 are marked? The choices are – (i) mintmark on coins worn away; (ii) engraver forgot to add mintmark to the dies; (iii) issue deliberately produced without mintmark. Assuming (iii) for the moment, the new Group takes the place of fnn. 46-47, pp.162-3, and fits here nicely with V’s title for Groups 5-6, and T’s for Group 6, But I have no fixed opinion, and await the appearance of others of this variety.'

I lean towards iii being the likeliest option - if accidental, why do we not see no mintmarks specimens throughout the series? Why are they only dated COS III? IMHO, the likeliest explanation is the no mintmark denarii were deliberately struck, albeit rather briefly (perhaps only for a few days), prior to or just after the COS III ΘΥ issue and before the much larger EPH issue was struck.

NB: This coin shares an obverse die with my RIC 1426(5A)4 denarius.3 commentsDavid AthertonDec 06, 2023

RIC 0908 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 24.10g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP PON TR POT COS V; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 908 (R). BMC -. BNC 760.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 47. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Acquired from Subak, April 2000, CICF.

Spes is a common Flavian reverse type connected to future dynastic hope and harmony and was often struck for all three Flavians. This rare Titus Caesar variety is missing from the BM.1 commentsDavid AthertonDec 04, 2023

RIC 0115 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 25.44g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III; Bust of Vespasian, laureate, draped, l.
Rev: S C in field; Mars adv. r., with trophy and spear
RIC 115 (R2). BMC -. BNC 541.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 8. EX Curtis Clay Collection. Acquired from Olding, MA Shops, March 2019 = Olding List 96, March 2019, Sammlung Fritz Reusing, no. 139. From the collection of Fritz Reusing (1874-1956), acquired from the Heynen Collection; inherited and continued by Reusing's nephew Paul Schürer (1890-1976).

A fantastically rare variety from Vespasian's first issue of 71 featuring an obverse left facing draped bust. RIC describes many of the sestertii from this issue as 'monumental', likely owing to the fine style, large flans, and ornate busts. Missing from the BM.

This particular specimen has the added honour of a distinguished old pedigree from the Fritz Reusing Collection. Reusing was a German portrait painter of the early 20th Century whose portraits included Richard Strauss, Igor Strawinsky, Max Planck, and Albert Einstein. I would like to think large imperial bronzes such as this one gave him inspiration. After Reusing's death his nephew Paul Schürer inherited and curated the collection.

2 commentsDavid AthertonNov 29, 2023

RIC 183 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.84g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; S C in field; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 183 (R2). BMC p. 261 ||. BNC 188.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 106. Ex Curtis Clay collection. Ex CNG 50, 23 June 1999, lot 86. Ex Cornelius C. Vermeule Collection. Ex Glendining & Co. The V.J.E. Ryan Collection part V, 2 April 1952, lot 2391 (part).

An extremely rare sestertius struck in 80 or 81 during Titus' great bronze issue. This is the first appearance of this Victory type on the coinage since earlier in Vespasian's reign. Could the occasion of the opening games of the Colosseum possibly have inspired the mint engravers to bring this reverse out of retirement? A dedicatory inscription on the new amphitheatre declared it had been funded from 'the spoils of war' and Victory featured prominently in its decorative scheme. Missing from the BM.3 commentsDavid AthertonNov 27, 2023

RIC 245 Titus VariantÆ As, 9.35g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: SECVRITAS AVGVST; S C in exergue; Securitas std. l., with sceptre; to l., altar
RIC 245 var. (head left). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 112. Ex Roman-num, eBay, 21 June 2009.

An unlisted variant of this extremely rare type for Titus, struck in 80-81 during his great bronze issue. RIC cites one specimen with head left (RIC 245), mine features the less common and unlisted head right. Astonishingly, a second head right example was listed in the same HJB sale from the Clay collection (lot 111), so a frequency rating of R2. The RIC II.1 Addenda questions whether this type actually reads SECVRIT or SECVRITAS. Both specimens in the HJB sale clearly show SECVRITAS. The Securitas type was likely issued as numismatic 'comfort food' for the Roman public, a reassurance of the continued status quo from Vespasian's reign. 1 commentsDavid AthertonNov 23, 2023

RIC 224 TitusÆ As, 10.52g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: FIDES PVBLICA; S C below; Hands clasped over caduceus and corn ears
RIC 224 (R2). BMC -. BNC 214.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 109. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Dionysos, eBay, 17 April 2016. Ex Dr. Walter Kimpel, 9 December 1961.

This as from 80-81 advertises the emperor's careful stewardship of Rome's corn-supply and finances. An exceedingly rare type for Titus as Augustus. Missing from the BM collection.1 commentsDavid AthertonNov 20, 2023

RIC 1513 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ25.5, 8.02g
Ephesus (?) mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMPER PONT; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT COS VI CENSOR; S C in field; Mars adv. l., with spear and shield
RIC 1513 (R2). BMC -. BNC -. RPC 1482 (1 spec.).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 95. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Ritter List 46, August 1996, no. 654.

Late in Vespasian's reign a rare series of orichalcum bronze coins were struck in Asia Minor at an unknown mint. Although imperial in appearance, the style, weight system, and metal used all point to a mint other than Rome. Due to their extreme rarity today, they could not have been struck for any great length of time (the date cannot be narrowed down any further than Vespasian's COS VIII, 77-78 AD). The types consist of ones variously copied from either Rome or local provincial issues. A stylistic similarity with the earlier 'o' mint denarii possibly struck at Ephesus has been noted by both RIC and RPC. 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). Further, metal analyses by Carradice and Cowell ('The minting of Roman Imperial Bronze Coins for Circulation in the East: Vespasian to Trajan', NC 147, pp. 26-50) strongly supports an Asia Minor origin for the issue. Only one specimen of this Mars type is cited by both RIC and RPC from Oxford. Missing from the BM and Paris collections.

*One objection to this link is the fact the 'o' mint series is riddled with mules and mixed up titles, something we don't see with the bronze issue.David AthertonNov 15, 2023

RIC 0608 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 26.55g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES VESP IMP PON TR POT COS II CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 608 (R2). BMC 667A. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 42. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex CNG E139, 10 May 2006, lot 284.

A rare Pax sestertius variety struck for Titus Caesar in 73 when he and Vespasian held the joint censorship. Pax is seen here holding a cornucopiae symbolising the emperor's gift of peace and prosperity to the empire.2 commentsDavid AthertonNov 13, 2023

RIC 0925 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] Æ Sestertius, 27.15g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 925 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 69. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Pagan, Yahoo!, 26 March 2003.

Domitian Caesar's sestertii under Vespasian are exceedingly rare. This Pax type struck in either 76 or early 77 is missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Nice bold portrait in fine style.

3 commentsDavid AthertonNov 08, 2023

RIC 0102 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 23.43g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III; Bust of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: RO-MA across field; S C in field; Roma stg. r., with Victory and spear
RIC 102 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 6. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Heidelberger Münzhandlung Herbert Grün e.K Auction 32, 5 May 2001, lot 552.

An early Vespasian sestertius from 71 featuring a fine style idealised portrait paired with a reverse die recycled from Galba's reign. All of the coins from this first sestertius issue of 71 are rare with most being monumental in design. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. RIC cites one specimen from Oxford.4 commentsDavid AthertonNov 06, 2023

RIC 0904 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 24.44g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP PON TR POT COS V; 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 904 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 255, 30 November 2023, lot 45. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Artemide eLive Auction 4, 9 September 2018, lot 264.

An extremely rare sestertius struck for Titus Caesar under Vespasian in 76. Vespasian and Titus often shared reverse types, normally those struck for Titus are a bit scarcer. This Fortuna type here symbolises Titus' safe return from the East after the Jewish War. RIC cites one specimen in Vienna. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. Bold Flavian portrait.

David AthertonNov 01, 2023

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid AthertonOct 30, 2023

RIC 0111 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 26.55g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III; Bust of Vespasian, laureate, draped, r.
Rev: SALVS AVGVSTA; S C in exergue; Salus std. l., with patera and sceptre
RIC 111 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 7. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Tom Cederlind.

An extremely rare sestertius struck for Vespasian between January and March 71. Curtis Clay had this to say about the piece which I cannot improve upon:

'Kraay in his illuminating Oxford dissertation, summarized in the new RIC, p. 22, established that Vespasian's sestertii of 71 (COS III) fall into three successive groups marked by progressive abbreviations of the emperor's name, and he suggested the following dates for the groups: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III: Jan.-March/April 71; Same but VESPASIAN and TR P for T P: March/April-July/August 71; Same but VESPAS: July/August-Dec. 71. The reverse SALVS AVGVSTA S C occurs mainly in the third and latest issue of the year. In the earlier groups this type is very rare. Obv. VESPASIANVS, with bust laureate and draped; the bust types and portrait features are much more varied in this early group than in the two later ones. Rev. SALVS AVGVSTA S C, from the only die known for this type in the VESPASIANVS issue. Kraay discovered that this is actually a rev. die of Galba's, engraved and used by Galba in 68 (Kraay's P 61), now reused by Vespasian about 2 1/2 years later!'

An utterly fantastic piece! RIC describes many of the sestertii from this issue as 'monumental', I think the above coin fits that description perfectly. Missing from the BM and Paris collections.7 commentsDavid AthertonOct 23, 2023

RIC 1239 VespasianÆ As, 9.80g
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: S C in field; Temple of Capitoline Jupiter with six columns
RIC 1239 (C). BMC 850. BNC 852.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 454.

In December 69 AD the Temple of Capitoline Jupiter was set ablaze and destroyed during factional warfare in the city of Rome between Vitellian and Flavian forces. Upon Vespasian's victorious arrival in October 70, one of his first acts was to rebuild the temple, supposedly carrying the first basket of rubble from the site himself. He spared no expense on the new temple, lavishly rebuilding it along the same foundational lines and increasing its height. This as struck half a decade later perhaps commemorates the completion of the structure. Although rated as 'common' in RIC, this variety is very rare in trade.2 commentsDavid AthertonOct 18, 2023

RIC 0601 VespasianÆ As, 8.38g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS IIII CENS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VES-TA across field; S C low in field; Temple, round, containing statue
RIC 601 (R). BMC 664. BNC 663.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 37. Ex Curtis Clay Collection.

A decently rare as from 73 depicting a round structure on the reverse, clearly identified on the coin as the temple of Vesta. This is the sixth incarnation of the temple, the fifth was destroyed in the great fire of 64 AD and it originally appeared on the coinage of Nero after his restoration of the structure. Vespasian likely embellished it, which perhaps explains its reappearance on the coinage (Tameanko p. 181). Conversely, Scott Arcenas in his study of Vespasian's temple of Vesta aurei has theorised its appearance here may symbolise the security of home and state rather than any building activity by Vespasian (Elkins p.79). It was a round temple mounted on a high podium and a narrow stairway approach. The columns were fitted with their own plinths and the surrounding intercolumniations laced with grillwork. The summit of the conical roof is flattened, presumably to hold a statue. The coin depicts a cult statue of Vesta between the columns, however, this figure could also be a visual representation of Vesta's eternal flame. The Flavian interest in her cult can best be explained by their desire for connection and continuity with Rome's sacred traditions after the horrors and tragedies of the recent Civil War. The type was fleetingly struck for Vespasian, Titus Caesar, and Domitian Caesar.1 commentsDavid AthertonOct 16, 2023

RIC 0323 VespasianÆ As, 9.69g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S C in field; Temple of Capitoline Jupiter with six columns
RIC 323 (R2). BMC 614. BNC 588.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 453. Ex Harlan J Berk, Summer 1986, lot 439.

In December 69 AD the Temple of Capitoline Jupiter was set ablaze and destroyed during factional warfare in the city of Rome between Vitellian and Flavian forces. Upon Vespasian's victorious arrival in October 70, one of his first acts was to lavishly rebuild the temple, supposedly carrying the first basket of rubble from the site himself. As it was the first major building project of the reign, the opening religious ceremonies were conducted with great fanfare. This extremely rare* as from 71 commemorates the rebuilding of the structure and is the earliest appearance of it on a Flavian coin. The reverse depicts an idealised rendition of the Vespasianic temple, as it was still a work in progress and would not be completed for several more years. The rebuilt temple would again succumb to fire in 80 under Titus. A double die match with the Oxford cast and the BM and Paris specimens.

*Rare enough that M. Tameanko in his book Monumental Coins erroneously refers to it as a sestertius and R. Darwell-Smith in Emperors and Architecture calls it a dupondius! N. T. Elkins gets it some-what right in his Monuments in Miniature, but unfortunately links this as variety of 71 to a photo of a heavily tooled sestertius from the BM with a fabricated reverse! No COS III sestertii with the temple of Jupiter exist. 5 commentsDavid AthertonOct 08, 2023

RPC 1658 VespasianAR Hemidrachm, 1.49g
Caesarea (Cappadocia) mint, undated
Obv: AVTOKP KAICAP OYЄCΠACIANOC CЄBA; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: Mount Argaeus; on summit, radiate figure standing, l., globe in r. hand, sceptre in l. hand
RPC 1658 (1 spec.).
Ex Rex Numismatics, Auction 1, 15 July 2023, lot 320.

An extremely rare hemidrachm struck at Caesarea Cappadocia featuring Mount Argaeus on the reverse. Only one specimen was cited from the RPC 'core collections' (compared to 19 of the Nike variety) when the volume was published in 1999. Since that time, five other examples have surfaced. Cappadocian hemidrachms were exclusively produced in 'local style' at Caesarea rather than at Rome.
David AthertonOct 05, 2023

RIC 0319 VespasianÆ As, 11.84g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: SALVS AVGVSTI; S C in field; Salus resting on column r., feeding snake out of patera
RIC 319 (R2). BMC 619A. BNC -.
Ex Rex Numismatics, Auction 1, 15 July 2023, lot 348.

Salus resting on column and feeding snake is an extremely rare type for Vespasian, it is more commonly associated with the denarii struck for Domitian Caesar. This Salus type may be attributed to the health and well-being of the emperor. It is known for Vespasian only from a unique dupondius (RIC 60) and this as variety, of which only a few specimens have been recorded. Whatever the cause for the type being struck for Vespasian, it must have been fleeting based on the scarcity of the pieces. A reverse die match with the BM specimen.1 commentsDavid AthertonOct 02, 2023

RPC 2275 Vespasian [Agrippa II]Æ27, 15.26g
Caesarea Paneas mint, 85-86 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑ ΟΥΕϹΠΑ ΚΑΙϹΑΡΙ ϹΕΒΑϹΤW; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ΕΤΟΥ-ΚϚ ΒΑ / ΑΓΡΙ-ΠΠΑ; Tyche with kalathos standing, l., holding cornucopia and two corn-ears, in l. field, crescent
RPC 2275 (3 spec.). Hendin 1282 var. (without crescent).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, April 2023.

Agrippa II sporadically struck coinage for the Flavian dynasty throughout his long reign. The coins circulated within his kingdom (Northern Palestine) and were likely coined at Caesaera Panesa, although the mint is not certain (Hendin places it at Caesarea Maritima). Confusingly, Agrippa's mint(s) employed two different dating eras for his coinage - one starting in 56 and the second in 60 or 61. This middle bronze struck for Vespasian is dated regnal year 26 by the second era and was produced posthumously(?) in either 85 or 86 AD under Domitian. RPC sums up the problem - 'The present chronology adopts the date of AD 60/1 for year 1 of the era used by Agrippa II, which solves a number of issues but gives the problem of having large number of issues of posthumous coinage for Vespasian and Titus.' There is no easy solution to the chronology puzzle and for now we have to assume this coin was struck posthumously under Domitian for Titus and lacking any reference to his divine status.

It must be noted that David Hendin does not adopt this chronology and instead dates the series from the first era, although he places the start in 49 rather than 56, based on the Kushnir-Stein chronology. If that is the case this coin would date to 74-75 AD.1 commentsDavid AthertonSep 27, 2023

RPC 1076 Domitian and DomitiaÆ23, 8.17g
Ephesus mint, Undated
Obv: ΔΟΜΙΤΙΑΝΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ΔΟΜΙΤΙΑ ϹƐΒΑϹΤΗ; laureate head of Domitian, r., facing draped bust of Domitia, l.
Rev: ΝƐΙΚΗ ΔΟΜΙΤΙΑΝΟΥ ƐΦƐ; Nike advancing l., holding wreath and palm
RPC 1076 (11 spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, March 2023. Formerly in NGC holder #4285432-007, grade Ch F.

An undated bronze struck in Asia Minor at Ephesus, featuring the imperial couple together on the obverse. The Nike on the reverse probably refers to a specific Domitianic victory rather than simply being generic, although which victory it commemorates is unknown (RPC II p. 167).1 commentsDavid AthertonSep 25, 2023

RIC 0384 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 22.77g
Rome mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S C in field; Mars adv. r., with trophy and spear
RIC 384 (R). BMC 621. BNC 609.
Acquired from Petra Klein, July 2023.

Vespasian's bronze coinage output in 72-73 was quite meagre compared to the vast issues of 71. This rare Mars variety is a carry-over from those massive issues. Struck just prior to Vespasian holding the censorship.1 commentsDavid AthertonSep 14, 2023

RIC 1491/1489A Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] Engraver's Error MuleAR Denarius, 3.41g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMIT COS III; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: ION (sic) MAX TR P COS V; Winged caduceus
Cf. RIC 1491/1489A (for obv./rev.). BMC -. BNC -. RPC -. RSC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 129. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Numismatic Naumann, E50, 5 February 2017, lot 515.

An unknown eastern mint struck a spate of denarii in 76 which copied many contemporary types from Rome. Both RIC and RPC speculate it possibly could be Ephesus, citing a similar style with a previous Ephesian issue from 74 and the use of an annulet as a mint mark. The series is riddled with error coins, such as this rare Domitian Caesar engraver's error mule. Here we erroneously have 'ION' instead of 'PON' in the reverse legend. The ION (sic) MAX COS V is a muddled reverse incompatibly struck for Titus Caesar (he could not have been PON MAX). So, a misspelled erroneous reverse impossibly intended for Titus Caesar paired with a Domitian Caesar obverse. Three mistakes on one coin! Same obverse die as RIC plate coin 1491. Possibly the only known specimen.

Off-centred and struck on a large oblong flan, but graced with a stylish portrait.1 commentsDavid AthertonSep 11, 2023

RIC 392 Julia Titi [Titus]Æ Dupondius, 11.62g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IVLIA IMP T AVG F AVGVSTA; Bust of Julia Titi, draped, r., hair piled high in front and coiled in small bun at back
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l., holding corn-ears and torch
RIC 392 (R). BMC 215. BNC 265.
Acquired from Prafectus Coins, July 2023.

Titus' daughter Julia Titi was granted the title Augusta during his reign sometime in 80 or 81. A small issue of denarii and dupondii were struck to commemorate the occasion, most of which are fairly scarce today. This dupondius featuring Ceres on the reverse is a most appropriate type for the new Augusta. RIC speculates the Ceres dupondius variety could possibly have been produced at the 'Thracian' mint, due to similar styles (p. 191).1 commentsDavid AthertonSep 06, 2023

RIC 1452 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.09g
Ephesus mint, 73 AD (late)
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS IIII TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and star in oak wreath
RIC 1452 (R3). BMC -. RSC -, RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 115. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Lanz, eBay, 13 September 2012.

An exceedingly rare Ephesian COS IIII denarius. RIC cites just one specimen (from different dies) of this AVG in oak wreath variety from a private collection. This is undoubtedly the scarcest issue struck for Vespasian at Ephesus, likely due to production spanning just a few weeks or days at the end of 73 just prior to Vespasian becoming COS V on 1 January 74. 2 commentsDavid AthertonSep 04, 2023

RIC 1425 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.06g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm; at lower r., BY (obscured)
RIC 1425 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Numismatic Naumann, Auction 130, 2 July 2023, lot 542.

An exceedingly rare variety from Vespasian's Ephesian Group 5 denarius issue. Only one specimen cited in RIC from a G&M sale and I know of one other (Ex Short coll., a double die match). Possibly the third known.3 commentsDavid AthertonAug 30, 2023

RIC 1479 Vespasian MuleAR Denarius, 3.06g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVT; Spes, draped, advancing l., holding up flower in r. hand and with l. holding up her skirt.
RIC 1479 (R2). BMC 492. BNC -. RPC 1455 (2 spec.). RSC 393a.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 124. Ex Curtis Clay Collection.

A mysterious eastern mint struck a spate of denarii in 76 which copied many contemporary types from Rome, such as this common Rome mint Spes. Both RIC and RPC speculate the mint possibly could be Ephesus, citing a similar style with a previous Ephesian issue from 74 and the use of an annulet as a mint mark. The issue is extremely rare. This denarius is a mint mule erroneously combining a Domitian Caeasar Spes reverse with a Vespasian obverse. Mules, muddled titles (PRINCEPS IVVENTVT for Vespasian!), and various reverse types mixed between Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian are hallmarks of the series. These 'o' mint denarii are often confused with the issues from Rome, however, they can be distinguished by their superior style, large portraits, and an annulet (if visible) below the bust. Missing from the Paris collection.4 commentsDavid AthertonAug 27, 2023

RIC 675 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.17g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD (sixth issue)
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 675 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 198. Ex Curtis Clay Collection.

All the denarii from the sixth issue of 88-89 are quite scarce, perhaps struck for only a few weeks or days prior to 14 September 89, upon which Domitian became TRP VIIII. The first Pannonian War may account for the rapid succession of imperial acclamations awarded to Domitian during the summer of 89. This M2 type is missing from both the BM and Paris collections.David AthertonAug 23, 2023

RIC 006 Domitian MuleAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR DOMITIANVS AVG; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P; Tripod with fillets; above, ravens, l. and r., and dolphin over wreath
RIC 6 (R3, this coin). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 139. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex CNG, Auction 70, 21 September 2005, lot 910.

A unique mint mule combining a first issue Domitian obverse with a reverse die used for Titus' last issue. This coin may help clear up a long debated mystery concerning the date of Titus' last denarius issue. Curtis Clay explains: 'Titus' gold and silver coinage is regarded as having ended before 1 July 80, over a year before he died, since his latest aurei and denarii all bear the title TR P IX, and his ninth tribunician year ended on 1 July 80. A fourteen-month gap in the precious metal coinage is strange in this era, however, and if we follow Mattingly in postulating that the attested fire in Rome in 80 destroyed the mint, so interrupting its production, it seems a remarkable coincidence that the mint was finally repaired, and ready to resume production using the same "pulvinar" types that it had been striking for Titus early in 80, precisely when Titus died and Domitian assumed the throne in Sept. 81! Judging from Domitian's earliest coinage, one would have thought that the mint must still have been producing pulvinar coins for Titus just before he died, despite the title TR P IX. That this was in fact the case seems to be proven by a mule which emerged in 2005, RIC Domitian 6, pl. 117, showing Domitian's earliest obv. legend as Augustus, IMP CAESAR DOMITIANVS AVG, coupled with a pulvinar reverse type of Titus, TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P, Tripod with dolphin, wreath, and ravens above. This mule strongly suggests that pulvinar coins were being struck for Titus just before he died: it's difficult to believe that an old die of before 1 July 80 had somehow survived the supposed fire, and just happened to be available for use by Domitian fourteen months later! But why continued use of the outdated title? In Sept. 81 Titus was TR P XI, not IX!'

This unique specimen is the plate coin in RIC II.1. It is also discussed in RIC's introduction to Titus' coinage: '... a recently discovered mint mule combines a reverse of Titus' last denarius issue with an obverse of the first issue of Domitian's reign in late 81 (Dom no. 6). Mules usually combine dies in parallel or at least in closely contemporaneous use, which might imply here that the Titus TRP IX IMP XV COS VIII dies continued to be used after the assumption of TR P X, and perhaps even into 81. In sum, while the titulature of Titus is of the first half of 80, the sheer scale of the coinage produced for Titus COS VIII and Domitian COS VII, and the fact that following Domitian's accession the mint was very active in the period September to December 81, suggests 80-81.' (p. 185) It must be noted that prior to this coin's discovery in 2005, Titus' last denarius issue had previously been dated by the major references to the first half of 80. Sometimes a coin can change history.

The numismatic and historical importance of the piece, combined with its aesthetic beauty, places it at or near the top of my list of all time favourite coins.7 commentsDavid AthertonAug 21, 2023

RIC 1541 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.20g
Antioch mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG in oak wreath
RIC 1541 (R2). BMC 497. BNC 326. RPC 1915 (3 spec.). RSC 36a.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 133. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Rauch, E15, 16-18 June 2014, lot 161.

An exceedingly rare first issue Antiochene denarius. The AVG in wreath reverse was fleetingly struck in 70 alongside the equally rare Pax and Virtus denarius types. It copies a similar design contemporaneously issued from Ephesus. My example shares an obverse die with the Oxford specimen and a seated Pax type from the same issue. Three other specimens of the type are known, all of which are in major collections - mine is the only one I am aware of in private hands.1 commentsDavid AthertonAug 16, 2023

RIC 0959A Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] MuleAR Denarius, 3.18g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VI in exergue; Oxen, two, yoked l.
RIC 959A, BMC -. BNC -. RSC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 101. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex CNG, E105, 5 January 2005, lot 156.

A unique mint mule combining an obverse of Domitian Caesar with a reverse intended for Titus Caesar. The yoked oxen type was struck exclusively for Vespasian and Titus Caesar in 77-78. This is the only known example of a mule pairing a Domitian Caesar obverse with a reverse intended for either Vespasian or Titus Caesar on the denarii. It has been assigned catalogue number RIC 959A in the RIC II.1 Addenda & Corrigenda.4 commentsDavid AthertonAug 14, 2023

RPC 1674 VespasianÆ27, 15.69g
Caesarea (Cappadocia) mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚΡ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ϹƐΒΑϹ ΟΥƐϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ƐΠΙ Μ ΝƐΡΑ ΠΑΝϹΑ ΠΡΕϹΒ, ƐΤ Ι in exergue; Mount Argaeus; on summit, radiate figure standing l., globe in r. hand, sceptre in l. hand
RPC 1674 (3 spec.).
Acquired from Marc Breitsprecher, July 2023.

A somewhat rare provincial Vespasian bronze struck at Caeserea, Cappadocia depicting the famous Mount Argaeus dated year 10 under the legat M Hirrius Fronto Neratius Pansa. The Cappadocian bronze issue roughly corresponds to the locally produced silver issues, perhaps indicating a need for small change. It is of no surprise that the mountain which visually loomed over the city figured prominently on the coinage. Strabo described Mount Argaeus as 'the highest of mountains whose peak is constantly covered with snow ...given good visibility, anyone who climbs this mountain - and not many do- are supposed to see both seas, the Pontus and the Issikos'.1 commentsDavid AthertonAug 09, 2023

RIC 1480 Vespasian MuleAR Denarius, 2.87g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l
RIC 1480 (R3). BMC -. BNC -. RSC -. RPC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 126. Ex Curtis Clay Collection.

The infamous 'o' mint denarii struck for Vespasian, Titus Caesar, and Domitian Caesar are thought to have been minted at Ephesus due to a similar 'o' mint mark previously used at that mint. The types are the same as those struck somewhat contemporaneously at Rome. Mules are a hallmark of the series, perhaps indicating a lack of care in their production, although the style is generally quite fine. This Vespasian denarius mule features a reverse that was originally struck for Domitian Caesar at Rome. The variety is listed as unique in RIC (citing the Jack Benedict Coll. which shares the same dies), this is possibly the fourth known specimen. Although it is likely a mule combining an obverse of Vespasian with a reverse intended for Domitian, the type has yet to be attested for Domitian at this mint! An unusual oversight considering the reverse commemorates Domitian's role in the Jewish War Triumph of 71.6 commentsDavid AthertonAug 07, 2023

RIC 1373 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.01g
Uncertain mint, 69-71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: MARS VLTOR; Mars adv. r., with spear and trophy
RIC 1373 (R3, this coin), BMC -. BNC -. RSC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 107. Ex Curtis Clay collection. Ex CNG, MBS 43, 24 September 1997, lot 863.

In late October 69 the Second Battle of Cremona was fought between the legions of Vitellius and Vespasian. It resulted in the utter defeat of the Vitellian side and their slow retreat towards Rome. Not long afterwards the Spanish legions went openly for Vespasian, which up until that point had only been neutrally friendly toward him. Coins were quickly struck for Vespasian in the newly won province. Most of these are attributed to Tarraco and an unknown Spanish mint. Intriguingly, a small military issue was contemporaneously struck at an uncertain mint somewhere in the western empire - Mattingly thought perhaps Aquileia. The issue contains some stylistic affinities with the Spanish series, but more importantly, recent metal analysis by K. Butcher and M. Ponting show the silver content is almost identical to that of the Spanish coins. It is very likely these early military denarii were also struck in Spain in late 69 soon after the province went over to Vespasian. This unique Mars type with an unusual vertical obverse legend displays the typical portrait style of this rare military issue - small portrait with upward gaze in somewhat crude style. These denarii were likely struck in haste during the turmoil of late 69/early 70 as propaganda pieces by the pro-Flavian factions in the region. This specimen is the RIC reference coin, though not pictured in the plates.5 commentsDavid AthertonAug 02, 2023

RIC cf. 100-132/267 Titus Fourrée MuleFourrée Denarius, 2.87g
Unofficial mint, after 80 AD
Obv: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG PM; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Goat standing l., in laurel-wreath.
Cf. RIC 100-132/267 (for obv./rev.).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 95. Ex Curtis Clay Collection, acquired from Lanz, eBay, 7 December 2019.

An unoffical mule featuring a Titus obverse paired with a reverse intended for Domitian Caesar. The type of a goat within laurel wreath was exclusively struck for Domitian Caesar under Titus and may represent Amalthea, the Cretan goat, which nursed the infant Jupiter. It copies a reverse type originally coined during the Roman Republic. Despite the piece being plated, the style is good for the issue. Possibly transfer dies?

Significantly, the Paris collection possesses a fourrée mule of the same type (BNC 115), however, it is in poor style from different dies. 3 commentsDavid AthertonJul 28, 2023

RIC 1078 var. Titus as Caesar [Vespasian] Rev. Legend ErrorAR Denarius, 3.15g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Venus stg. r., leaning on column, with helmet and spear
RIC 1078 var. (rev. legend-TR POT VIII COS VII) p. 185, note 195. BMC 255 var. (same). RSC 332 var. (same). BNC 223 var. (same).
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 224, 14 September 2023, lot 94. Ex Curtis Clay Collection, acquired from Flavian Logic, November 2001.

A most remarkable error denarius! Here we have a Domitian Caesar reverse legend PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS mistakenly given to a Titus Caesar Venus type by the engraver. The correct legend should read TR POT VIII COS VII. Perhaps the Venus reverse was confused with the Salus/column type (RIC 1084) struck for Domitian Caesar from the same issue? Furthermore, Domitian's COS VI issue with the reverse legend PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS is dated to 79 and could either have been struck under Vespasian before his death in June or by Titus afterwards. The existence of this Titus Caesar error coin proves at least some of Domitian's COS VI coinage was produced under Vespasian (see RIC II p. 31). Extremely rare, possibly the third known specimen.

2 commentsDavid AthertonJul 26, 2023

RIC 0453 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 10.52g
Rome mint, 72 AD
Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP P TR P COS II; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory adv. r. to place wreath on standard and holding palm
RIC 453 (R). BMC 645. BNC 636.
Ex Heritage, Auction #232326, 5 July 2023, lot 65138. Formerly in NGC holder #2119689-009, grade F.

A fairly rare Titus Caesar as from 72 featuring Victory with standard on the reverse. One could plausibly argue this is a 'Judaea Capta' type. I decline to categorise it as such based on the generic nature of the design and the lack of a captive. It is too ambiguous for a decisive answer. Hendin does not include the variety in his Guide to Biblical coins.
1 commentsDavid AthertonJul 24, 2023

RPC 1656 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Drachm, 2.94g
Caesarea (Cappadocia) mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: ΔΟΜΙΤΙΑΝΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ϹƐΒΑϹΤΟΥ ΥΙΟϹ; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev: ƐΥΘΗΝΙΑ ϹƐΒΑϹΤΗ ƐΤ Θ; Eutheria/Abundantia std., r., holding two corn-ears in r. hand
RPC 1656 (3 spec.).
Acquired from David Connors, June 2023

Vespasian's Cappadocian silver issues were struck in two distinct styles: Roman (six o'clock die axis) and 'local' (twelve o'clock die axis). Unsurprisingly, the Roman style coins were struck at Rome and sent to Cappadocia to help supplement the locally produced pieces. The majority of Cappadocia's silver coins were struck locally, very likely in Caesarea. Whether 'Roman' or 'local', all Cappadocian silver was produced at nearly 50% fineness. This rare drachm struck for Domitian Caesar in 'local' style features Eutheria the goddess or personified spirit (daimona) of prosperity and abundance.1 commentsDavid AthertonJul 19, 2023

RIC 0165 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 23.94g
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., Judaea std. l. on cuirass; to r., Captive stg. l.; both figures surrounded by arms
RIC 165 (R). BMC 540. BNC 494. Hendin 1502.
Acquired from Sebastian Sondermann, June 2023.

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 and a seated Judaea, both surrounded by arms. The second bronze issue of 71 saw these produced in massive quantities with a few different variations on the theme. This coin is a rarer variety featuring Judaea seated to the left of the palm and the standing captive to the right. It is more commonly encountered with the position of the figures reversed.

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 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.

4 commentsDavid AthertonJul 17, 2023

RPC 2209 TitusÆ23, 11.02g
Ascalon (Judaea) mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: ΣΕΒΑΣΤΟΣ; Head of Titus, laureate, r.
Rev: ΑΣΚΑΛΩ, ΔΠΡ; Tyche standing, l., on prow with standard and aphlaston; in l. field incense altar; in r. field dove standing l.
RPC 2209 (8 spec.).
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, June 2023.

In the years after the devastating Jewish revolt the pro-Roman harbour city of Ascalon produced a series of leaded bronze coins under the Flavians. The coins copy types previously struck under Augustus and Nero. Here we see Tyche as a city goddess along with Ascalon's city symbol a dove. Pliny the Elder mentions Ascalon as the only oppidum liberum in the region during the first century AD (NH 5. 68).

NB: An aphlaston is the upward curving stern of an ancient warship.3 commentsDavid AthertonJul 12, 2023

RIC 1579 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ As, 5.54g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: CAESAR DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 1579 (C). BMC 884. BNC -. RPC 2002 (12 Spec.).
Acquired from André Cichos, eBay, June 2023.

A some-what mysterious 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 example with left facing portrait is supposedly more common than the right facing variety, although it too is infrequently seen in trade. Missing from the Paris collection.
3 commentsDavid AthertonJul 10, 2023

RPC 2466 TitusAR Tetradrachm, 13.08g
Alexandria mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: AYTOK TITOY KAIΣ OYEΣΠAΣIANOY ΣEB; Head of Titus, laureate, r.
Rev: NIA-OΣ; bust of Nilus with lotus on shoulder, r., date LΓ to r.
RPC 2466 (4 spec.). Emmett 234.3. Dattari-Savio 462.
Acquired from Tater's Relics, eBay, June 2023.

The Nilus type makes an appearance on Titus's tetradrachms during his third regnal year and is a carry-over reverse from Vespasian's Alexandrian bronze issues. Nilus was the god of the river Nile and father to several children. He is often shown on the coinage as a bearded old man holding a lotus flower, which symbolises the sun breaking forth from the water every morning with a beautiful bloom.

Titus's Alexandrian tetradrachms are scarcer than those of his father, perhaps owing to the shorter amount of time they were struck and a general winding down of the mint's production.3 commentsDavid AthertonJul 05, 2023

RIC 337 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Dupondius, 14.12g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; S C in exergue; Concordia std. l., with patera and cornucopiae
RIC 337 (C). BMC 239. BNC 247.
Acquired from eBay, June 2023. Formerly in NGC holder #4938480-029, grade VF.

A common Concordia type struck for Domitian Caesar under Titus after Vespasian's deification. According to H. Mattingly, Concordia here promises Domitian's 'loyal co-operation with his brother.' Suetonius would have us believe this public fraternal affection was a sham and Domitian did everything he could to plot against Titus. Dio goes so far as to say Domitian hastened Titus' death by having him packed in ice! All of this can be dismissed as nothing more than post-Domitianic gossip intended to blacken Domitian's name. The Flavian historian Brian Jones speculates the brother's relationship was one of 'mutual indifference and ignorance' due to their age and personality disparities. The numismatic evidence shows that the two brothers at least put on a good public face.

The portrait is rendered in fine style.1 commentsDavid AthertonJul 02, 2023

RIC 0681/0690 Vespasian MuleAR Denarius, 2.46g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS III across field; Laurel trees, two, upright
Cf. RIC 681/690 (for obv./rev.). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

A unique and unpublished denarius mule combining an obverse of Vespasian with a reverse intended for Titus Caesar. Vespasian should be named COS V on the reverse, instead we have Titus's COS III title. Mules between Vespasian and Titus are not unheard of due to both of them frequently sharing the same reverse types throughout the reign. RIC II.1 author Ian Carradice has been alerted to this mule and has added a footnote to RIC 690 (... mint mule with obverse of Vespasian).

The reverse is a restoration of of a similar type struck by Augustus. The two laurel trees represent the ones planted at Augustus's door.2 commentsDavid AthertonJun 29, 2023

RIC 1092 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 12.58g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN COS VIIII; Head of Vespasian, radiate, l.
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l., with corn ears and poppy and sceptre
RIC 1092 (R). BMC p. 177 ||. BNC -.
Acquired from Classic World Coins, May 2023.

Vespasian's bronze issue struck in 79 (between 1 January and 24 June) was very brief, likely owing to his death in June. Consequently, all the coins from the issue are extremely rare. Only one reverse type is recorded for the dupondii - the standing Ceres, carried-over from previous bronze issues. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. 1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 26, 2023

RIC 1203 VespasianÆ As, 9.26g
Lyon mint, 72 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS IIII; 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 1203 (R). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, 28 May 2023.

A fairly rare Lugdunese Victory as Struck in 72. Victory was a common theme on Vespasian's early issues and should be viewed in a generic context with no specific link to the Jewish War. This Victory variety sans prow is scarcer than those that include it. Although RIC assigns the type a frequency rating of 'rare' for both issues struck in 71 and 72, the 72 variety seems much scarcer in trade. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 21, 2023

RIC 418 DomitianÆ As, 12.26g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: SALVTI above, AVGVSTI below; S C in field; Altar
RIC 418 (R2). BMC 366A. BNC -.
Acquired from Jetons Canada, eBay, May 2023.

The SALVTI AVGVSTI altar type was first introduced on Domitian's aes coinage in 84 after a brief hiatus of the Senatorial mint's production in 82-83, presumably for re-organisational purposes. The structure on the reverse has been traditionally described as an altar, however, Marvin Tameanko has convincingly argued it is actually a sacellum, or small shrine. He states the steps at the base leading to two doors with handles are overwhelming evidence that the structure was much larger than an altar. As far as the shrine's significance - H. Mattingly in BMCRE II interprets the type as commemorating the Senate's dedication of an altar shrine celebrating Domitian's safe return from the Germanic Wars of 82-83. Alternately, the shrine may have been dedicated as an appeal to Salus for the emperor's continued good health. In any case, no trace of the shrine has survived antiquity. This as struck during the last bronze issue of 85 is a rare variety of the type with a RIC frequency rating of 'R2'. Missing from the Paris collection.1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 19, 2023

RIC 247 Titus VariantÆ As, 9.10g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; S C in field; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 247 var. (rev. legend). BMC -, BNC -.
Acquired from Roman Coin Shop, May 2023.

A unique and unpublished variant of the left facing portrait/Victory advancing type with the reverse legend beginning from the upper right instead of the previously recorded lower left. Although the reverse legend on this specimen is worn, the letter 'V' starting off the legend can clearly be seen below Victory's wreath. RIC II.1 co-author Ian Carradice has been notified of the piece and should assign it as a footnote to RIC 247 in the Addenda and Corrigenda (...variant with reverse legend inscribed from top right, not bottom left).
1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 14, 2023

RIC 0305 VespasianÆ As, 9.64g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass, head resting on hand, surrounded by arms
RIC 305 (C). BMC 605. BNC 580. Hendin 1554a.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, May 2023. Ex Jean Elsen & ses Fils S.A. Auction 154, 17 March 2023, lot 602.

Judaea Capta commemorative coins were struck in all metals, but are quite scarce on the middle bronzes. This as from 71 echoes a similar Judaea Capta denarius struck the previous year. Here IVDEA CAPTA is spelled out, on the denarii only IVDAEA is in exergue (note the different spelling between the two denominations). The cuirass and surrounding pile of arms are also missing from the denarius examples. This as is rated common in RIC but can be most difficult to find in trade.1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 12, 2023

RIC 493 DomitianÆ As, 10.76g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: MONETA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Moneta stg. l., with scales and cornucopiae
RIC 493 (C3). BMC 389. BNC 418.
Ex Tater's Relics, eBay, 16 May 2023.

In 82 Domitian reformed the coinage by increasing the weight of the gold and fineness of the silver. Production of the bronze coinage was suspended while the mint was reorganised and resumed in 84 with new reverse types and a higher artistic standard. Appropriately, one of the first types struck on the bronze after the coinage reform was Moneta, 'mint goddess of the emperor'. H. Mattingly believes Moneta in this context can be seen as symbolising Domitian's control of the mint and as paymaster to the empire. A fitting reverse design for an emperor who cared so much for his coinage. Mirroring the silver, many of the bronze coins struck in the first year or so after the coinage reform have portraits with an aegis, an extra detail likely due to Domitian's attentive care. Under Domitian Moneta became a regular feature of the coinage and was struck year after year on the As issues. This example from 86 is one of the most common types struck for the as issue that year, perhaps indicating the importance of the reverse message.1 commentsDavid AthertonJun 07, 2023

RIC 0742 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Dupondius, 13.58g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP COS III CENS; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: FELICITAS PVBLICA; S C in field; Felicitas stg. l., with caduceus and cornucopiae
RIC 742 (C). BMC 707. BNC 729.
Acquired from AE-Collections, May 2023.

Felicitas on the reverse symbolises the prosperity and abundance the Flavian dynasty has brought to the empire. The type was struck for all three Flavians under Vespasian and is certainly one of the more abundant reverse types of the reign.David AthertonJun 05, 2023

RPC 2495 DomitianÆ Diobol, 6.54g
Alexandria mint, 83-84 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚ ΚΑΙΣΑΡ ΔΟΜΙΤΙΑΝΟΣ ΣΕΒ; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: ΕΤΟΥΣ ΤΡΙΤΟΥ; Eagle standing, r., on thunderbolt
RPC 2495 (3 spec.). Emmett 281.3. Dattari-Savio 584.
Acquired from eBay, May 2023.

A regnal year 3 diobol struck before the Alexandrian mint was reformed several years later. The reverse types employed on Domitian's Alexandrian coinage was a mix of both Greek and native Egyptian types. Here the reverse depicts an eagle with thunderbolt, attributes of the supreme Greek god Zeus. Oddly, Emmett rates this variety from regnal year 3 as 'common', although only three specimens are found in RPC's 'core collections'.1 commentsDavid AthertonMay 31, 2023

RIC 135B TitusÆ Sestertius, 23.85g
Rome mint, 80 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Mars, with cloak over shoulders, adv. r., with spear and trophy
RIC 135B, BMC -. BNC -.
Ex N&N London Auction 16, 1 May 2023, lot 454.

An extremely rare sestertius struck for Titus in early 80 as part of a newly discovered transitional issue. The first issue of 80 (Group 1) consists of three rare reverse types: Judaea Capta with standing captive, Pax, and Mars all with outwardly inscribed obverse legends starting counter clockwise from the lower right. Group 2 is the massive bronze issue Titus struck between 80-81 with inwardly inscribed obverse legends clockwise starting from the lower left and featuring 'VESP' instead of the previous issue's 'VESPASIAN'. With the recent discovery of this Mars type along with the newly discovered Judaea Capta sestertius T135A I previously shared, we can now say for certain that there was a brief transitional issue struck between the two groups, (now called Group 1A) featuring inwardly inscribed legends with 'VESPASIAN'. This is the second known example of the Mars type for Group 1A, it would later be more commonly struck at the Thracian mint. RIC II.1 co-author Ian Carradice has assigned the new variety as RIC 135B in the Addenda & Corrigenda. It must be noted this Mars type was not struck for the subsequent Rome mint Group 2.

Curtis Clay has proposed (Gemini IX, lot 448) a Thracian origin for the Group 1 issue because of the flat fabric of the flans (a trademark of the Thracian mint), many of the specimens came to market after the fall of the Iron Curtain, and the reverse designs match those struck later at the Thracian mint. He further argues the 'Rome mint' style can be explained by Roman die engravers being transferred to Thrace. The style indeed mirrors contemporary Rome mint denarii, which can only be a result of the same engravers working on both issues. Despite the flat fabric of the flans, the style does not match up to the later Thracian issues (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits), and the circulation pattern appears to be similar with the Rome mint issues. For the time being I'll attribute Group 1 and 1A to Rome until further evidence comes to light.2 commentsDavid AthertonMay 29, 2023

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