| Image search results - "vespasian," |
Vespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D.
Copper as, RIC II-1 336, BMCRE II 616, BnF III 595, Cohen I 632, Hunter I 119, SRCV I -, Choice VF, superb portrait, well centered on a tight flan, green patina with bare metal high points, scattered porosity, Rome mint, weight 11.694g, maximum diameter 26.9mm, die axis 180o, 71 A.D.; obverse IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III, laureate head right; reverse VICTORIA NAVALIS (the naval victory), Victory standing right on a galley prow, wreath in extended right hand, palm frond over left shoulder in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking low across field; from an Israeli collection, Ex Forum paul1888
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Vespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D.
SH110254. Silver denarius, RIC II-1 1431; RSC II 276; RPC II 833; BnF III 351; BMCRE II 457, SRCV I 2270, Choice EF, well centered, excellent portrait, light toning, slight double strike, 3.326g, 18.3mm, 180o, Ephesus mint, IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P, laureate head right; reverse PACI AVGVSTAE, Victory advancing right, wreath in extended right hand, palm frond over left shoulder in left hand, EPHE (PHE ligate) lower right; ex Inasta (San Marino) auction 100 (24 Jun 2022), lot 212 Ex: Forum Ancient Coins.
Ephesus peaked during the 1st and 2nd century A.D. when it was second in importance and size only to Rome, with a population estimated at 400,000 to 500,000 in 100 A.D. The city was famous for the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, and its theater, seating 25,000 spectators. Ephesus also had several large bath complexes and one of the most advanced aqueduct systems in the ancient world. Water powered numerous mills, one of which has been identified as a sawmill for marble. The city and temple were destroyed by the Goths in 263 A.D., marking the decline of the city's splendor.paul1888
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10 Vespasian AureusVespasian, 69-79 AD
AV aureus (19mm, 7.11 gm, 7h). Lugdunum Mint, AD 71.
O: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P, laureate head right
R: COS III FORT RED, Fortuna Redux standing left, holding globe and caduceus.
Calico 613. RIC 1111. Nearly VF
Ex Heritage
RI0056Sosius
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10 Vespasian and TitusVespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D., Antioch, Syria
Silver tetradrachm, Prieur 113, McAlee 336, RPC II 1947, Wruck 86, aVF, Antioch mint, weight 13.89g, maximum diameter 24.3mm, die axis 0o, 70 - 71 A.D.; obverse ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤ ΚΑΙΣΑ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΥ, laureate bust right; reverse ETOYC Γ IEPOY (Holy Year 3), eagle standing left on club, wings spread, palm frond left; ex CNG auction 149, lot 286; ex Garth R. Drewry Collection, ex Harmer Rooke (26-28 March 1973), lot 488 (part of).
Struck to pay Titus' legions during and after the First Jewish Revolt. RPC notes c. 320 different dies indicate 6,500,000 Syrian tetradrachms might have been minted. This was the quantity Titus would have needed to pay his four legions. Hoard evidence finds many of these types in Judaea confirming they were used to pay the legions.
Purchased from FORVM!
RI0002
Sosius
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11 Titus Æ DupondiusTITUS
Æ Dupondius
(28mm, 13.13 g, 6h)
Lugdunum (Lyon) mint, under Vespasian, 77-78 AD
O: Laureate head right, globe at tip of neck
R: Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and cornucopia.
RIC II 1252 (Vespasian); Lyon 107 (Vespasian). Good VF, natural green patina, minor cleaning marks.
Ex CNG
RI0054Sosius
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0 - a - Vespasian Silver Tetradrachm - 14.8 Grams - Antioch, Syria.Ancient Roman Empire
Antioch, Syria.
Silver Tetradrachm of Emperor Vespasian ( 69 - 79 AD )
(titles in Greek)
obv: Laureate bust of the Emperor facing right.
rev: Eagle, holding a laureate wreath in his beak, standing on club of Hercules facing left, palm branch to left in field.
Size: 28 - 29 mm
Weight: 14.8 Grams.
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~*~ CLICK PHOTO FOR FULLSIZE ~*~
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~rexesq
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00 - Vespasian AR Denarius - Winged CaduceusEmperor Vespasian (AD 69 - 79)
Silver Denarius, Rome Mint AD 74
obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANUS AUG - Laureate head right.
rev: PON MAX TR P COS V - Winged Caduceus.
RIC 703
rexesq
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00 - Vespasian AR Denarius - Winged Caduceus.Emperor Vespasian (AD 69 - 79)
Silver Denarius, Rome Mint AD 74
obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANUS AUG - Laureate head right.
rev: PON MAX TR P COS V - Winged Caduceus.
RIC 703
Note the detail on the heads of the snakes of the caduceus.rexesq
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000 - Vespasian AR Denarius - Clasped HandsVespasian Silver Denarius - Clasped Hands
Rome Mint, AD 73
obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG PM COS IIII CEN - Laureled head right.
rev: FIDES PVBL - Clasped hands holding wheat ears, opium poppies and caduceus.
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A bit off-center, but a beautiful portrait of the Emperor, and great detail on the poppy heads.
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**
**More photos of this Vespasian Denarius below, in Alphabetical order...rexesq
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000 - Vespasian AR Denarius - Clasped Hands Vespasian Silver Denarius - Clasped Hands
Rome Mint, AD 73
obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG PM COS IIII CEN - Laureled head right.
rev: FIDES PVBL - Clasped hands holding wheat ears, opium poppies and caduceus.
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A bit off-center, but a beautiful portrait of the Emperor, and great detail on the poppy heads.
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** These photos slightly bright and off-color due to lighting
**More photos of this Vespasian Denarius below, in Alphabetical order...
rexesq
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009. Vespasian, 68-79AD. AE Aes.AE Aes. Rome mint.
Obv. Laureate head right IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS VII
Rev. Aequitas standing left holding patera and sceptre AEQVITAS AVGVSTI S-C
RIC 890.
Lovely patina.
Edit: Thanks David Atherton for the attribution correction
LordBest
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009. Vespasian, 69-79AD. AR Denarius.Vespasian 69-79. Rome mint, AR Denarius. Struck in 75A.D.
Obv. Laureate head right IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG
Rev. Pax seated left, holding branch PON MAX TRP COS VI
19.5mm, 2.84g. RSC 366, RIC 772 (90).
A very craggy Vespasianic portrait. Pax appears to be bared to the waist, unusual. LordBest
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010a. VitelliusEmperor 2 January -- 20 December 69
Aulus Vitellius. Well connected politically. While commander in Germania, troops proclaimed him emperor. Beat Otho in battle for the throne. On approach of Vespasian, he was killed by a mob.lawrence c
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010b. Germanicus & Vitellia VitelliusChildren of Vitellius. When he lost the war with Vespasian, the son was executed, but the daughter was allowed to live.lawrence c
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02 - Personalities of the EmpireCalígula, Claudius, Britannicus , Agrippina jr., Nero, Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian, Domitila, Titus, Domitia and Julia Titimdelvalle
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0356, RIC II(1962) 042, Rome, AR-Denarius, AVG V R/TRI POT, Sacrificial implements, #3020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0356, RIC II(1962) 042, Rome, AR-Denarius, AVG V R/TRI POT, Sacrificial implements, #3
avers: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII, Laureate head right.
reverse: AVG V R/ TRI-POT, Sacrificial implements: simpulum, aspergillum, jug, and lituus.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 16,0-17,0mm, weight: 3,23g, axes: 7h,
mint: Rome, date: 72-73 A.D., ref: RIC² 0356, RIC II(1962) 042, RSC-45,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0777, RIC II(1962) 0093, AR-Denarius, Rome, PON MAX TR P COS VI, Victory standing left on prow, #1020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0777, RIC II(1962) 0093, AR-Denarius, Rome, PON MAX TR P COS VI, Victory standing left on prow, #1
avers: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG, Laureate head right.
reverse: PON MAX TR P COS VI, Victory standing left on the prow of a ship, holding wreath and palm.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 17,0-18,5 mm, weight: 3,19g, axes: 7h,
mint: Rome, date: 75 A.D., ref: RIC² 0777, RIC II(1962) 0093, RSC 368, BMC 166,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, Rome, AE-Dupondius, FELICITAS PVBLICA, S-C, Felicitas standing left, #1020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, Rome, AE-Dupondius, FELICITAS PVBLICA, S-C, Felicitas standing left, #1
avers: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS VII, Radiate head right.
reverse: FELICITAS PVBLICA, S C across fields; Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and cornucopia.
exergue: S/C//--, diameter: 27,0mm, weight: 13,00g, axis: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 76 A.D.,
ref: RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, C-155,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, Rome, AE-Dupondius, FELICITAS PVBLICA, S-C, Felicitas standing left, #2020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, Rome, AE-Dupondius, FELICITAS PVBLICA, S-C, Felicitas standing left, #2
avers: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS VII, Radiate head right.
reverse: FELICITAS PVBLICA, S C across fields; Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and cornucopia.
exergue: S/C//--, diameter: 25,3-26,5mm, weight: 12,62g, axis: 5h,
mint: Rome, date: 76 A.D.,
ref: RIC² 0887, RIC II(1962) 578, C-155,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0890, RIC II(1962) 5802, Rome, AE-As, S/C//--, AEQVITAS AVGVST, Aequitas standing left, #1020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 0890, RIC II(1962) 5802, Rome, AE-As, S/C//--, AEQVITAS AVGVST, Aequitas standing left, #1
avers: IMP CAESAR VESPA AVG COS VII, Laureate head right.
reverse: AEQVITAS AVGVST, Aequitas standing left, holding scales and scepter, S C across fields.
exergue: S/C//--, diameter: 25-25,5mm, weight: 11,20g, axis: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 71 A.D., ref: RIC² 0890, RIC II(1962) 580, C , BMC , Sear ,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 1416, Ephesus (Byzantium), AR-Denarius, CONCORDIA AVG, Ceres, #1020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 1416, Ephesus (Byzantium), AR-Denarius, CONCORDIA AVG, Ceres, #1
avers: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P, Laureate head right.
reverse: CONCORDIA AVG, Ceres, enthroned left, holding grain ears and a cornucopiae, BY (monogram) mintmark for Byzantium in the exergue.
exergue: -/-//BY(monogram, mintmark for Byzantium), diameter: 17,5-19,0mm, weight: 3,60 g, axis: 6h,
mint: Ephesus (Byzantium), date: A.D., ref: RIC² 1416, RPC II 824, Sear/RCV 2266var., RSC 66a,
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020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 1431, Ephesus, AR-Denarius, PACI AVGVSTAE, Victory, draped, advancing right, #1020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² 1431, Ephesus, AR-Denarius, PACI AVGVSTAE, Victory, draped, advancing right, #1
avers: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P, Laureate head right.
reverse: PACI AVGVSTAE, Victory, draped, advancing right, holding wreath extended in right hand and palm over the left shoulder. EPHE lower right.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 17,0-18,0mm, weight: 3,41 g, axis: 0h,
mint: Ephesus, date: 71 A.D., ref: RIC² 1431, RPC II 833, BMC 457, RSC 276,
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020b Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² Titus 0357, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0063, AR-Denarius, Rome, Two Capricornus, Large shield version!, SC, #1020b Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² Titus 0357, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0063, AR-Denarius, Rome, Two Capricornus, Large shield version!, SC, #1
avers: DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, Laureate head right.
reverse: No legend, Shield reading SC held by two capricornii, globe below.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 17,5-18,5mm, weight: 3,33g, axes: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 80-81 A.D., ref: RIC² (Titus) 0357, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0063 p-123, RSC 497, BMC 129, BM-129, Paris 101,
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020b Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² Titus 0359a, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0062, AR-Denarius, Rome, E-X, SC on round shield set on the column, #1020b Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RIC² Titus 0359a, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0062, AR-Denarius, Rome, E-X, SC on round shield set on the column, #1
avers: DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, Laureate head right.
reverse: E-X, SC on round shield set on the column, upon which an urn sits, laurel branch to each side.
exergue: E/X//SC, diameter: 17,0-18,0mm, weight: 3,24g, axes: 5h,
mint: Rome, date: 80-81 A.D., ref: RIC² (Titus) 0359a, RIC II(1962) (Titus) 0062 p-123, RSC 149, BMC 125,
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020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Cappadocia, Caesarea, Galatia-Cappadocia, RPC II 1659, AR-Hemidrachm, Nike advancing right, #1020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Cappadocia, Caesarea, Galatia-Cappadocia, RPC II 1659, AR-Hemidrachm, Nike advancing right, #1
avers: AYTOKP KAICAP OYЄCΠACIANOC CЄBA Laureate head of Vespasian to right.
reverse: Nike advancing right, holding wreath in her right hand and palm frond over her left shoulder.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 12,9-13,9mm, weight: 1,54g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Caesarea, Region: Cappadocia, Province: Galatia-Cappadocia,
date: 69-79 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1659, Sydenham 94, Metcalf 17, SGI 735,
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020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Egypt, Alexandria, RPC II 2447, Bi-Tetradrachm, LH, Laureate head of Titus right, #1020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Egypt, Alexandria, RPC II 2447, Bi-Tetradrachm, LH, Laureate head of Titus right, #1
avers: AYTOK KAIΣ ΣEBA OYEΣΠAΣIANOY, Laureate head of Vespasianus right, LH.
reverse: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤΩΡ ΤΙΤΟΣ ΚΑΙΣΑΡ, Laureate head of Titus right.
exergue: -/LH//--, diameter: 22,0-23,0mm, weight: 10,82g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Alexandria, Region: Egypt, Province: Egypt,
date: Year (LH) 8 = 75-76 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 2447, Geissen-303-304, Dattari-347-349, Kapmann-Ganschow-20.53-p-70, Milne- ,
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020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, RPC II 1945, AR-Tetradrachm, ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle standing left, #1020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, RPC II 1945, AR-Tetradrachm, ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle standing left, #1
avers: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤ ΚΑΙΣΑ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΥ, Laureate head of Vespasian, right.
reverse: ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle with spread wings, standing left, on the club.; in left field, palm branch.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 23,8-24,3mm, weight: 15,67g, axis: 0h,
mint: Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, date: 69-70 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1945, Wruck 79, McAlee 334
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020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, RPC II 1955, AR-Tetradrachm, ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with wreath in beak #1020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, RPC II 1955, AR-Tetradrachm, ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with wreath in beak #1
avers: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑ ΟΥЄϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ϹЄΒΑϹΤΟϹ, Laureate head of Vespasian, right.
reverse: ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with spread wings, with wreath in beak standing left, on the club.; in left field, palm branch.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 25,0-26,5mm, weight: 15,13g, axis: 0h,
mint: Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, date: 70-71 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1955, Wruck 84, McAlee 23,
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020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Troas, Ilion, Asia (conventus of Adramyteum), RPC II 0893, AE-21, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left #1020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), Troas, Ilion, Asia (conventus of Adramyteum), RPC II 0893, AE-21, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left #1
avers: (AYTOK K CEBAC) OYECPACIANOC, Laureate head of Vespasian right
reverse: TITω KAICAP I ΔOMITIANΩ KA IΛI, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left. Between them, cult image of Athena, standing on a low base, turned half left, brandishing spear and resting a hand on the shield.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 19,5-21,0mm, weight: 8,25g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Ilium, Region: Troas, Province: Asia (conventus of Adramyteum),
date: 69-79 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 0893, Bellinger T127, BMC 46, SNG Cop 392,
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022b Titus (69-79 A.D. Caesar, 79-81 A.D. Augustus), RIC² 0162, RIC II(1962) 0098, AE-Sestertius, Roma, PROVIDENT AVGVST, -/-//SC, Vespasian and Titus, Scarce!, #1022b Titus (69-79 A.D. Caesar, 79-81 A.D. Augustus), RIC² 0162, RIC II(1962) 0098, AE-Sestertius, Roma, PROVIDENT AVGVST, -/-//SC, Vespasian, and Titus, Scarce!, #1
avers: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII, Laureate head left.
revers: PROVIDENT AVGVST, Vespasian standing right, presenting a globe to Titus, who stands left, SC in exergue.
exergue: -/-//SC, diameter: 32,0-33,0 mm, weight: 23,95 g, axis: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: A.D., ref: RIC² 0162, RIC II(1962) 0098 p-128, C 179, BMC 180,
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030 - Vespasian, Denarius, Ephesus, RIC 1457 Obv - IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, right
Rev - PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. right, with wreath and palm; at lower right, star; annulet beneath
Minted in Ephesus, A.D. 74
References:- RIC 1457. BMCRE 475. RSC 277.
Dimensions:- 22.04 mm x 19.07 mm
Severely double struck.
It looks like there was a very off-centre initial strike and the coin was re-struck with a central strike.maridvnvm
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090 Vespasian"Looks like Vespasian, first issue of 71 with full name VESPASIANVS:
IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III, bust laureate r. resting on globe and with aegis on shoulder
FIDES EXERCITVVM, S C in ex. , clasped hands before legionary eagle on prow.
The obverse die is A23 in Colin Kraay's unpublished Oxford dissertation, the rev. die P75. Kraay didn't know this die combination, but it is recorded by RIC 70 from a single specimen in the Termopolio Hoard from Pompeii, published in 1997.
These are rare types: only one other obv. die of the issue shows this combination of aegis and globe for the bust, and this is the only rev. die of the FIDES EXERCITVVM type used in the issue, though a second such die was used later in the year with Vespasian's name abbreviated VESPASIAN (no -VS).
To see what your dies looked like before the corrosion, see RIC pl. 18, 117 and pl. 16, 71 for the obv. and rev. respectively! These are the same two dies on well preserved specimens in other die combinations."
thanks for the help Curtislclay !
New picRandygeki(h2)
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090 VespasianVespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D.
Silver denarius, RIC II part 1, 362; SRCV I 2317, BMCRE II 74, F, 2.879g, 17.2mm, 195o, Rome mint, 72 - 73 A.D.; obverse IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII, laureate head right; reverse VICTORIA AVGVSTI, Victory advancing right, crowning legionary standard with wreath with right, palm across shoulder in left.
"This type likely refers to the victory in Judaea but does not specifically identify that victory."Randygeki(h2)
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12 CAESARS PORTRAITSObverse images from my collection.
R 1: Julius, Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula
R 2: Claudius, Nero, Galba, Otho
R 3: Vitellius, Vespasian, Titus, Domitianlaney
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1aw Vespasian69-79
Denarius
Laureate head, right, IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN
Salus seated left with patera, SALVS AVG
RIC 513 (C2)
Suetonius wrote: The Flavians seized power, and the Empire, long troubled and adrift, afflicted by the usurpations and deaths of three emperors, at last achieved stability. True they were an obscure family, with no great names to boast of, yet one our country has no need to be ashamed of. . . . Vespasian was born in the Sabine country, in the little village of Falacrinae just beyond Reate (Rieti), on the 17th of November 9 AD in the consulship of Quintus Sulpicius Camerinus and Gaius Poppaeus Sabinus, five years before the death of Augustus. He was raised by his paternal grandmother Tertulla on her estate at Cosa. . . .
Under Claudius, he was sent to Germany (in 41 AD) to command a legion, thanks to the influence of Narcissus. From there he was posted to Britain (in 43 AD), where partly under the leadership of Aulus Plautius and partly that of Claudius himself, he fought thirty times, subjugating two powerful tribes, more than twenty strongholds, and the offshore island of Vectis (the Isle of Wight). This earned him triumphal regalia, and a little later two priesthoods and the consulship (in 51 AD) which he held for the last two months of the year. . . . He won, by lot, the governorship of Africa (in 63 AD), ruling it soundly and with considerable dignity. . . .
An ancient and well-established belief became widespread in the East that the ruler of the world at this time would arise from Judaea. This prophecy as events proved referred to the future Emperor of Rome, but was taken by the Jews to apply to them. They rebelled, killed their governor, and routed the consular ruler of Syria also, when he arrived to restore order, capturing an Eagle. To crush the rebels needed a considerable force under an enterprising leader, who would nevertheless not abuse power. Vespasian was chosen, as a man of proven vigour, from whom little need be feared, since his name and origins were quite obscure. Two legions with eight divisions of cavalry and ten cohorts of auxiliaries were added to the army in Judaea, and Vespasian took his elder son, Titus, along as one of his lieutenants. . . .
Yet Vespasian made no move, though his follower were ready and eager, until he was roused to action by the fortuitous support of a group of soldiers unknown to him, and based elsewhere. Two thousand men, of the three legions in Moesia reinforcing Otho’s forces, despite hearing on the march that he had been defeated and had committed suicide, had continued on to Aquileia, and there taken advantage of the temporary chaos to plunder at will. Fearing that if they returned they would be held to account and punished, they decided to choose and appoint an emperor of their own, on the basis that they were every bit as worthy of doing so as the Spanish legions who had appointed Galba, or the Praetorian Guard which had elected Otho, or the German army which had chosen Vitellius. They went through the list of serving consular governors, rejecting them for one reason or another, until in the end they unanimously adopted Vespasian, who was recommended strongly by some members of the Third Legion, which had been transferred to Moesia from Syria immediately prior to Nero’s death. . . .
Vespasian, an unheralded and newly-forged emperor, as yet lacked even a modicum of prestige and divine majesty, but this too he acquired. . . . Returning to Rome (in 70 AD) attended by such auspices, having won great renown, and after a triumph awarded for the Jewish War, he added eight consulships (AD 70-72, 74-77, 79) to his former one, and assumed the censorship. He first considered it essential to strengthen the State, which was unstable and well nigh fatally weakened, and then to enhance its role further during his reign. . . .
Blindado
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1ax Titus79-81
AE, Ankyra, Galatia
Laureate head, right AY KAICAP TITOC CEBASTO. . .
Man standing, left, SEBASTHNWN TEKTOSAGWN
RPC 1620
By Suetonius' account: Titus, surnamed Vespasianus like his father, possessed such an aptitude, by nature, nurture, or good fortune, for winning affection that he was loved and adored by all the world as Emperor. . . . He was born on the 30th of December AD41, the very year of Caligula’s assassination, in a little dingy room of a humble dwelling, near the Septizonium. . . .
He was handsome, graceful, and dignified, and of exceptional strength, though of no great height and rather full-bellied. He had an extraordinary memory, and an aptitude for virtually all the arts of war and peace, being a fine horseman, skilled in the use of weapons, yet penning impromptu verses in Greek and Latin with equal readiness and facility. He had a grasp of music too, singing well and playing the harp pleasantly and with ability. . . .
As military tribune in Germany (c57-59AD) and Britain (c60-62), he won an excellent reputation for energy and integrity, as is shown by the large number of inscribed statues and busts of him found in both countries. . . . When his quaestorship ended, he commanded one of his father’s legions in Judaea, capturing the strongholds of Tarichaeae and Gamala (67AD). His horse was killed under him in battle, but he mounted that of a comrade who fell fighting at his side. . . . [Upon] Vespasian’s accession, his father left him to complete the conquest of Judaea, and in the final assault on Jerusalem (70AD) Titus killed twelve of the defenders with as many arrows. . . .
From then on, he acted as his father’s colleague and even protector. He shared in his Judaean triumph (of AD 71), the censorship (AD 73), the exercise of tribunicial power, and in seven of his consulships (AD 70, 72, 74-77, 79). . . .
He died at the same villa as his father, Vespasian, on the 13th of September AD81, at the age of forty-one, after a reign of two years, two months, and twenty days. The people mourned his loss as if he were a member of their own family. Blindado
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2015 HighlightsHere are a few of my favorite acquisitions from 2015. To see detailed descriptions of each coin, click on a title below. Thanks for checking out my gallery and may everyone have a happy and safe New Year!
Lucius Marcius Philippus, RSC Marcia 28
Vespasian, RIC 1558
Domitian, RIC Vesp 957
Trajan, RIC 212
Trajan, RIC 222
Hadrian, RIC 129c
Hadrian, RIC 247i
Marcus Aurelius, RIC 291
Septimius Severus, RIC 494
Caracalla, RIC 120
Elagabalus, RIC 88
Severus Alexander, RIC 178
Volusian, McAlee 1192/1193 variety
Matt Inglima
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207/1. Decimia or Flavia? - denarius (150 BC)AR Denarius (Rome, 150 BC)
O/ Helmeted head of Roma right; X behind.
R/ Luna in biga right, holding whip & reins; FLAVS below; ROMA in exergue.
3.95g; 19mm
Crawford 207/1 (61 obverse dies/76 reverse dies)
- Collection of Frederick Sydney Clark (1923-2016), British collector in East Sussex.
- Toovey's, 01/11/2017, Lot 701.
* Decimius Flavus or Gaius Flavius Fimbria:
This issue has been given to a member of the plebeian gens Decimia, of Samnite origin. The gens was relatively new at the time since its first identified member Numerius Decimius distinguished himself during the Second Punic War (Livy, xxii. 24), and probably received the Roman citizenship as a result. Two Decimii used the cognomen Flavus: a military tribune in 207 named Gaius Decimius Flavus (Livy, xxvii. 14), and his probable son of the same name, who was Urban Praetor in 184, but died immediately after his election (Livy, xxxix. 38).
Three other Decimii are then known: Marcus, Gaius, and Lucius, all ambassadors in Greece in 172-171 (Livy, xlii. 19, 35, 37 respectively). They were possible sons of the Praetor of 184, in which case our moneyer was the son of one of them, although nothing is known of him. However, none of them had a cognomen and Flavus simply meant "blond hair", a rather common cognomen unlikely to feature alone on a coin.
So the name could refer to another gens; it is indeed possible to read it as FLAVIVS. This name, widespread during the Empire after Vespasian, was nevertheless uncommon in the second century and therefore distinctive enough so that the moneyer did not need to add the rest of his name. Besides, only one Flavius is known in this century: the Popularis Gaius Flavius C.f. Fimbria, Consul in 104 alongside Marius. Fimbria was therefore born no later than 146 (the Consulship was reserved to men aged at least 42 years old), a date which would remarkably fit with his father moneyer in 150 and therefore in his 20s. As Fimbria was a novus homo, the moneyership held by his father would testify the ascension of the family before him.Joss
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22115 Vespasian/Tri Pot ReverseVespasian/Vesta Denarius 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M
Head of Vespasian, laureate, right
Rev: TRI POT
Vesta, draped, veiled, seated left, holding simpulum in extended right hand, left hand at side
Mint: Rome 18mm., 2,97g.
RIC II, Part 1 (second edition) Vespasian 46 Sear 2312
Ex Savoca Auctions 16th Blue Auction
Blayne W
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710a, Vespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D.Silver denarius, RIC II, 10, aVF, 3.5 g, 18mm, Rome mint, 69-71 AD; Obverse: IMP CAESA[R] VESPASIANV[S AV]G - Laureate head right; Reverse: COS ITER [T]R POT - Pax seated left holding branch and caduceus. Ex Imperial Coins.
De Imperatoribus Romanis:
An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families
Titus Flavius Vespasianus (A.D. 69-79)
John Donahue
College of William and Mary
Introduction
Titus Flavius Vespasianus (b. A.D. 9, d. A.D. 79, emperor A.D. 69-79) restored peace and stability to an empire in disarray following the death of Nero in A.D. 68. In the process he established the Flavian dynasty as the legitimate successor to the Imperial throne. Although we lack many details about the events and chronology of his reign, Vespasian provided practical leadership and a return to stable government - accomplishments which, when combined with his other achievements, make his emperorship particularly notable within the history of the Principate.
Early Life and Career
Vespasian was born at Falacrina near Sabine Reate on 17 November, A.D. 9, the son of T. Flavius Sabinus, a successful tax collector and banker, and Vespasia Polla. Both parents were of equestrian status. Few details of his first fifteen years survive, yet it appears that his father and mother were often away from home on business for long periods. As a result, Vespasian's early education became the responsibility of his paternal grandmother, Tertulla. [[1]] In about A.D. 25 Vespasian assumed the toga virilis and later accepted the wearing of the latus clavus, and with it the senatorial path that his older brother, T. Flavius Sabinus, had already chosen. [[2]] Although many of the particulars are lacking, the posts typically occupied by one intent upon a senatorial career soon followed: a military tribunate in Thrace, perhaps for three or four years; a quaestorship in Crete-Cyrene; and the offices of aedile and praetor, successively, under the emperor Gaius. [[3]]
It was during this period that Vespasian married Flavia Domitilla. Daughter of a treasury clerk and former mistress of an African knight, Flavia lacked the social standing and family connections that the politically ambitious usually sought through marriage. In any case, the couple produced three children, a daughter, also named Flavia Domitilla, and two sons, the future emperors Titus and Domitian . Flavia did not live to witness her husband's emperorship and after her death Vespasian returned to his former mistress Caenis, who had been secretary to Antonia (daughter of Marc Antony and mother of Claudius). Caenis apparently exerted considerable influence over Vespasian, prompting Suetonius to assert that she remained his wife in all but name, even after he became emperor. [[4]]
Following the assassination of Gaius on 24 January, A.D. 41, Vespasian advanced rapidly, thanks in large part to the new princeps Claudius, whose favor the Flavians had wisely secured with that of Antonia, the mother of Germanicus, and of Claudius' freedmen, especially Narcissus. [[5]] The emperor soon dispatched Vespasian to Argentoratum (Strasbourg) as legatus legionis II Augustae, apparently to prepare the legion for the invasion of Britain. Vespasian first appeared at the battle of Medway in A.D. 43, and soon thereafter led his legion across the south of England, where he engaged the enemy thirty times in battle, subdued two tribes, and conquered the Isle of Wight. According to Suetonius, these operations were conducted partly under Claudius and partly under Vespasian's commander, Aulus Plautius. Vespasian's contributions, however, did not go unnoticed; he received the ornamenta triumphalia and two priesthoods from Claudius for his exploits in Britain. [[6]]
By the end of A.D. 51 Vespasian had reached the consulship, the pinnacle of a political career at Rome. For reasons that remain obscure he withdrew from political life at this point, only to return when chosen proconsul of Africa about A.D. 63-64. His subsequent administration of the province was marked by severity and parsimony, earning him a reputation for being scrupulous but unpopular. [[7]] Upon completion of his term, Vespasian returned to Rome where, as a senior senator, he became a man of influence in the emperor Nero's court. [[8]] Important enough to be included on Nero's tour of Greece in A.D. 66-67, Vespasian soon found himself in the vicinity of increasing political turbulence in the East. The situation would prove pivotal in advancing his career.
Judaea and the Accession to Power
In response to rioting in Caesarea and Jerusalem that had led to the slaughter in the latter city of Jewish leaders and Roman soldiers, Nero granted to Vespasian in A.D. 66 a special command in the East with the objective of settling the revolt in Judaea. By spring A.D. 67, with 60,000 legionaries, auxiliaries, and allies under his control, Vespasian set out to subdue Galilee and then to cut off Jerusalem. Success was quick and decisive. By October all of Galilee had been pacified and plans for the strategic encirclement of Jerusalem were soon formed. [[9]] Meanwhile, at the other end of the empire, the revolts of Gaius Iulius Vindex, governor of Gallia Lugdunensis, and Servius Sulpicius Galba , governor of Hispania Tarraconensis, had brought Nero's reign to the brink of collapse. The emperor committed suicide in June, A.D. 68, thereby ensuring chaos for the next eighteen months, as first Galba and then Marcus Salvius Otho and Aulus Vitellius acceded to power. Each lacked broad-based military and senatorial support; each would be violently deposed in turn. [[10]]
Still occupied with plans against Jerusalem, Vespasian swore allegiance to each emperor. Shortly after Vitellius assumed power in spring, A.D. 69, however, Vespasian met on the border of Judaea and Syria with Gaius Licinius Mucianus, governor of Syria, and after a series of private and public consultations, the two decided to revolt. [[11]] On July 1, at the urging of Tiberius Alexander, prefect of Egypt, the legions of Alexandria declared for Vespasian, as did the legions of Judaea two days later. By August all of Syria and the Danube legions had done likewise. Vespasian next dispatched Mucianus to Italy with 20,000 troops, while he set out from Syria to Alexandria in order to control grain shipments for the purpose of starving Italy into submission. [[12]] The siege of Jerusalem he placed in the hands of his son Titus.
Meanwhile, the Danubian legions, unwilling to wait for Mucianus' arrival, began their march against Vitellius ' forces. The latter army, suffering from a lack of discipline and training, and unaccustomed to the heat of Rome, was defeated at Cremona in late October. [[13]] By mid-December the Flavian forces had reached Carsulae, 95 kilometers north of Rome on the Flaminian Road, where the Vitellians, with no further hope of reinforcements, soon surrendered. At Rome, unable to persuade his followers to accept terms for his abdication, Vitellius was in peril. On the morning of December 20 the Flavian army entered Rome. By that afternoon, the emperor was dead. [[14]]
Tacitus records that by December 22, A.D. 69, Vespasian had been given all the honors and privileges usually granted to emperors. Even so, the issue remains unclear, owing largely to a surviving fragment of an enabling law, the lex de imperio Vespasiani, which conferred powers, privileges, and exemptions, most with Julio-Claudian precedents, on the new emperor. Whether the fragment represents a typical granting of imperial powers that has uniquely survived in Vespasian's case, or is an attempt to limit or expand such powers, remains difficult to know. In any case, the lex sanctioned all that Vespasian had done up to its passing and gave him authority to act as he saw fit on behalf of the Roman people. [[15]]
What does seem clear is that Vespasian felt the need to legitimize his new reign with vigor. He zealously publicized the number of divine omens that predicted his accession and at every opportunity he accumulated multiple consulships and imperial salutations. He also actively promoted the principle of dynastic succession, insisting that the emperorship would fall to his son. The initiative was fulfilled when Titus succeeded his father in A.D. 79.[[16]]
Emperorship
Upon his arrival in Rome in late summer, A.D. 70, Vespasian faced the daunting task of restoring a city and a government ravaged by the recent civil wars. Although many particulars are missing, a portrait nevertheles emerges of a ruler conscientiously committed to the methodical renewal of both city and empire. Concerning Rome itself, the emperor encouraged rebuilding on vacated lots, restored the Capitol (burned in A.D. 69), and also began work on several new buildings: a temple to the deified Claudius on the Caelian Hill, a project designed to identify Vespasian as a legitimate heir to the Julio-Claudians, while distancing himself from Nero ; a temple of Peace near the Forum; and the magnificent Colosseum (Flavian Amphitheatre), located on the site of the lake of Nero 's Golden House. [[17]]
Claiming that he needed forty thousand million sesterces for these projects and for others aimed at putting the state on more secure footing, Vespasian is said to have revoked various imperial immunities, manipulated the supply of certain commodities to inflate their price, and increased provincial taxation. [[18]] The measures are consistent with his characterization in the sources as both obdurate and avaricious. There were occasional political problems as well: Helvidius Priscus, an advocate of senatorial independence and a critic of the Flavian regime from the start, was exiled after A.D. 75 and later executed; Marcellus Eprius and A. Alienus Caecina were condemned by Titus for conspiracy, the former committing suicide, the latter executed in A.D. 79.
As Suetonius claims, however, in financial matters Vespasian always put revenues to the best possible advantage, regardless of their source. Tacitus, too, offers a generally favorable assessment, citing Vespasian as the first man to improve after becoming emperor. [[19]] Thus do we find the princeps offering subventions to senators not possessing the property qualifications of their rank, restoring many cities throughout the empire, and granting state salaries for the first time to teachers of Latin and Greek rhetoric. To enhance Roman economic and social life even further, he encouraged theatrical productions by building a new stage for the Theatre of Marcellus, and he also put on lavish state dinners to assist the food trades. [[20]]
In other matters the emperor displayed similar concern. He restored the depleted ranks of the senatorial and equestrian orders with eligible Italian and provincial candidates and reduced the backlog of pending court cases at Rome. Vespasian also re-established discipline in the army, while punishing or dismissing large numbers of Vitellius ' men. [[21]]
Beyond Rome, the emperor increased the number of legions in the East and continued the process of imperial expansion by the annexation of northern England, the pacification of Wales, and by advances into Scotland and southwest Germany between the Rhine and the Danube. Vespasian also conferred rights on communities abroad, especially in Spain, where the granting of Latin rights to all native communities contributed to the rapid Romanization of that province during the Imperial period. [[22]]
Death and Assessment
In contrast to his immediate imperial predecessors, Vespasian died peacefully - at Aquae Cutiliae near his birthplace in Sabine country on 23 June, A.D. 79, after contracting a brief illness. The occasion is said to have inspired his deathbed quip: "Oh my, I must be turning into a god!" [[23]] In fact, public deification did follow his death, as did his internment in the Mausoleum of Augustus alongside the Julio-Claudians.
A man of strict military discipline and simple tastes, Vespasian proved to be a conscientious and generally tolerant administrator. More importantly, following the upheavals of A.D. 68-69, his reign was welcome for its general tranquility and restoration of peace. In Vespasian Rome found a leader who made no great breaks with tradition, yet his ability ro rebuild the empire and especially his willingness to expand the composition of the governing class helped to establish a positive working model for the "good emperors" of the second century.
Bibliography
Since the scholarship on Vespasian is more comprehensive than can be treated here, the works listed below are main accounts or bear directly upon issues discussed in the entry above. A comprehensive modern anglophone study of this emperor is yet to be produced.
Atti congresso internazionale di studi Flaviani, 2 vols. Rieti, 1983.
Atti congresso internazionale di studi Vespasianei, 2 vols. Rieti, 1981.
Bosworth, A.B. "Vespasian and the Provinces: Some Problems of the Early 70s A.D." Athenaeum 51 (1973): 49-78.
Brunt, P. A. "Lex de imperio Vespasiani." JRS (67) 1977: 95-116.
D'Espèrey, S. Franchet. "Vespasien, Titus et la littérature." ANRW II.32.5: 3048-3086.
Dudley, D. and Webster, G. The Roman Conquest of Britain. London, 1965.
Gonzalez, J. "The Lex Irnitana: A New Copy of the Flavian Municipal Law." JRS 76 (1986): 147-243.
Grant, M. The Roman Emperors: A Biographical Guide to the Rulers of Rome, 31 B.C. - A.D. 476. New York, 1985.
Homo, L. Vespasien, l'Empereur du bons sens (69-79 ap. J.-C.). Paris, 1949.
Levi, M.A. "I Flavi." ANRW II.2: 177-207.
McCrum, M. and Woodhead, A. G. Select Documents of the Principates of the Flavian Emperors Including the Year of the Revolution. Cambridge, 1966.
Nicols, John. Vespasian and the Partes Flavianae. Wiesbaden, 1978.
Scarre, C. Chronicle of the Roman Emperors. The Reign-by-Reign Record of the Rulers of Imperial Rome. London, 1995.
Suddington, D. B. The Development of the Roman Auxiliary Forces from Caesar to Vespasian, 49 B.C. - A.D. 79. Harare: U. of Zimbabwe, 1982.
Syme, R. Tacitus. Oxford, 1958.
Wardel, David. "Vespasian, Helvidius Priscus and the Restoration of the Capitol." Historia 45 (1996): 208-222.
Wellesley, K. The Long Year: A.D. 69. Bristol, 1989, 2nd ed.
Notes
[[1]] Suet. Vesp. 2.1. Suetonius remains the major source but see also Tac. Hist. 2-5; Cass. Dio 65; Joseph. BJ 3-4.
[[2]] Suetonius (Vesp. 2.1) claims that Vespasian did not accept the latus clavus, the broad striped toga worn by one aspiring to a senatorial career, immediately. The delay, however, was perhaps no more than three years. See J. Nicols, Vespasian and the Partes Flavianae (Wiesbaden, 1978), 2.
[[3]] Military tribunate and quaestorship: Suet. Vesp. 2.3; aedileship: ibid., 5.3, in which Gaius, furious that Vespasian had not kept the streets clean, as was his duty, ordered some soldiers to load him with filth;,they complied by stuffing his toga with as much as it could hold. See also Dio 59.12.2-3; praetorship: Suet. Vesp. 2.3, in which Vespasian is depicted as one of Gaius' leading adulators, an account consistent with Tacitus' portrayal (Hist 1.50.4; 2.5.1) of his early career. For a more complete discussion of these posts and attendant problems of dating, see Nicols, Vespasian, 2-7.
[[4]] Marriage and Caenis: Suet. Vesp. 3; Cass. Dio 65.14.
[[5]] Nicols, Vespasian, 12-39.
[[6]] Suet. Vesp. 4.1 For additional details on Vespasian's exploits in Britain, see D. Dudley and G. Webster, The Roman Conquest of Britain (London, 1965), 55 ff., 98.
[[7]] Concerning Vespasian's years between his consulship and proconsulship, see Suet. Vesp. 4.2 and Nicols, Vespasian, 9. On his unpopularity in Africa, see Suet. Vesp. 4.3, an account of a riot at Hadrumentum, where he was once pelted with turnips. In recording that Africa supported Vitellius in A.D. 69, Tacitus too suggests popular dissatisfaction with Vespasian's proconsulship. See Hist. 2.97.2.
[[8]] This despite the fact that the sources record two rebukes of Vespasian, one for extorting money from a young man seeking career advancement (Suet. Vesp. 4.3), the other for either leaving the room or dozing off during one of the emperor's recitals (Suet. Vesp. 4.4 and 14, which places the transgression in Greece; Tac. (Ann. 16.5.3), who makes Rome and the Quinquennial Games of A.D. 65 the setting; A. Braithwaite, C. Suetoni Tranquilli Divus Vespasianus, Oxford, 1927, 30, who argues for both Greece and Rome).
[[9]] Subjugation of Galilee: Joseph. BJ 3.65-4.106; siege of Jerusalem: ibid., 4.366-376, 414.
[[10]] Revolt of Vindex: Suet. Nero 40; Tac. Ann. 14.4; revolt of Galba: Suet. Galba 10; Plut. Galba, 4-5; suicide of Nero: Suet. Nero 49; Cass. Dio 63.29.2. For the most complete account of the period between Nero's death and the accession of Vespasian, see K. Wellesley, The Long Year: A.D. 69, 2nd. ed. (Bristol, 1989).
[[11]] Tac. Hist. 2.76.
[[12]] Troops in support of Vespasian: Suet. Vit. 15; Mucianus and his forces: Tac. Hist. 2.83; Vespasian and grain shipments: Joseph. BJ 4.605 ff.; see also Tac. Hist. 3.48, on Vespasian's possible plan to shut off grain shipments to Italy from Carthage as well.
[[13]] On Vitellius' army and its lack of discipline, see Tac. Hist. 2.93-94; illness of army: ibid., 2.99.1; Cremona: ibid., 3.32-33.
[[14]] On Vitellius' last days, see Tac. Hist. 3.68-81. On the complicated issue of Vitellius' death date, see L. Holzapfel, "Römische Kaiserdaten," Klio 13 (1913): 301.
[[15]] Honors, etc. Tac. Hist. 4.3. For more on the lex de imperio Vespasiani, see P. A. Brunt, "Lex de imperio Vespasiani," JRS (67) 1977: 95-116.
[[16]] Omens: Suet. Vesp. 5; consulships and honors: ibid., 8; succession of sons: ibid., 25.
[[17]] On Vespasian's restoration of Rome, see Suet. Vesp. 9; Cass. Dio 65.10; D. Wardel, "Vespasian, Helvidius Priscus and the Restoration of the Capitol," Historia 45 (1996): 208-222.
[[18]] Suet. Vesp. 16.
[[19]] Ibid.; Tac. Hist. 1.50.
[[20]] Suet. Vesp. 17-19.
[[21]] Ibid., 8-10.
[[22]] On Vespasian's exploits in Britain, see esp. Tac., Agricola, eds. R. M. Ogilvie and I. A. Richmond (1967), and W. S. Hanson, Agricola and the Conquest of the North (1987); on the granting of Latin rights in Spain, see, e.g., J. Gonzalez, "The Lex Irnitana: a New Copy of the Flavian Municipal Law." JRS 76 (1986): 147-243.
[[23]] For this witticism and other anecdotes concerning Vespasian's sense of humor, see Suet. Vesp. 23.
Copyright (C) 1998, John Donahue. Published on De Imperatoribus Romanis, an Online Encyplopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families.
http://www.roman-emperors.org/vespasia.htm
Used by permission.
Edited by J. P. Fitzgerald, Jr.
Cleisthenes
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712a, Domitian, 13 September 81 - 18 September 96 A.D.Domitian, as Caesar, AR Denarius. 77-78 AD; RIC 242, VF, 18mm, 3.18grams. Obverse: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIA[NVS], laureate head right ; Reverse: COS V below man with hand raised out behind him on horse prancing right. RSC 49a. Scarce. Ex Zuzim Judaea.
De Imperatoribus Romanis: An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families
Titus Flavius Domitianus(A.D. 81-96)
John Donahue
College of William and Mary
Domitian was born in Rome on 24 October A.D. 51, the youngest son of Vespasian, Roman emperor (A.D. 69-79) and Domitilla I, a treasury clerk's daughter. Little is known about Domitian in the turbulent 18 months of the four (five?) emperors, but in the aftermath of the downfall of Vitellius in A.D. 69 he presented himself to the invading Flavian forces, was hailed as Caesar, and moved into the imperial residence.
As emperor, Domitian was to become one of Rome's foremost micromanagers, especially concerning the economy. Shortly after taking office, he raised the silver content of the denarius by about 12% (to the earlier level of Augustus), only to devaluate it in A.D. 85, when the imperial income must have proved insufficient to meet military and public expenses.
Domitian's reach extended well beyond the economy. Late in A.D. 85 he made himself censor perpetuus, censor for life, with a general supervision of conduct and morals. The move was without precedent and, although largely symbolic, it nevertheless revealed Domitian's obsessive interest in all aspects of Roman life. An ardent supporter of traditional Roman religion, he also closely identified himself with Minerva and Jupiter, publicly linking the latter divinity to his regime through the Ludi Capitolini, the Capitoline Games, begun in A.D.86. Held every four years in the early summer, the Games consisted of chariot races, athletics and gymnastics, and music, oratory and poetry.
Beyond Rome, Domitian taxed provincials rigorously and was not afraid to impose his will on officials of every rank. Consistent with his concern for the details of administration, he also made essential changes in the organization of several provinces and established the office of curator to investigate financial mismanagement in the cities. Other evidence points to a concern with civic improvements of all kinds, from road building in Asia Minor, Sardinia and near the Danube to building and defensive improvements in North Africa.
While the military abilities of Vespasian and Titus were genuine, those of Domitian were not. Partly as an attempt to remedy this deficiency, Domitian frequently became involved in his own military exploits outside of Rome. He claimed a triumph in A.D. 83 for subduing the Chatti in Gaul, but the conquest was illusory. Final victory did not really come until A.D. 89. In Britain, similar propaganda masked the withdrawal of Roman forces from the northern borders to positions farther south, a clear sign of Domitian's rejection of expansionist warfare in the province.
Domitian's autocratic tendencies meant that the real seat of power during his reign resided with his court. The features typically associated with later courts - a small band of favored courtiers, a keen interest in the bizarre and the unusual (e.g., wrestlers, jesters, and dwarves), and a highly mannered, if somewhat artificial atmosphere, characterized Domitian's palace too, whether at Rome or at his Alban villa, some 20 kilometers outside of the capital.
On 18 September, A.D. 96, Domitian was assassinated and was succeeded on the very same day by M. Cocceius Nerva, a senator and one of his amici. The sources are unanimous in stressing that this was a palace plot, yet it is difficult to determine the level of culpability among the various potential conspirators.
In many ways, Domitian is still a mystery - a lazy and licentious ruler by some accounts, an ambitious administrator and keeper of traditional Roman religion by others. As many of his economic, provincial, and military policies reveal, he was efficient and practical in much that he undertook, yet he also did nothing to hide the harsher despotic realities of his rule. This fact, combined with his solitary personality and frequent absences from Rome, guaranteed a harsh portrayal of his rule. The ultimate truths of his reign remain difficult to know.
Copyright (C) 1997, John Donahue.
Published: De Imperatoribus Romanis: An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families http://www.roman-emperors.org/startup.htm. Used by permission.
Perhaps the reverse of this Domitian/Horseman specimen depicts Domitian as he rode a white horse behind his father, Vespasian, and his brother, Titus, during their joint triumph celebrating their victory over Judaea (see: Suetonius. The Twelve Caesars. Trans. Robert Graves. London: Penguin, 2003. 304).
Edited by J. P. Fitzgerald, Jr.
Cleisthenes
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Antioch, AE23Vespasian, Antioch, AE23, 7.2g. Obverse: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG, laureate head left. Reverse: large S C within laurel wreath composed of eight sets of leaves. McAlee 363b. ex areich, photo credit areichPodiceps
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Asia Minor, Lydia, Hierocaesarea, Vespasian, stagObverse and reverse die match:
Vespasian
Bronze
Obv.: OYECΠACIANOC KAICAP CEBA, laureate head of Vespasian right
Rev: IEPOKAICAPEΩN, stag standing right.
Æ, 18mm, 5.15g (upper coin, Ex Gorny&Mosch A271, 531)
Æ, 20mm, 3.85g (second coin)
Ref.: RPC II, 955, upper coin RPC 955-9 (this coin)
shanxi
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BCC CM47 Nero KAI/Bust CountermarksRoman Greek Provincial
Probable undertype: Caesarea Maritima
Nero 54-68CE w/ 2 Countermarks
Obv: Obliterated. (NEPΩN KAIΣAP
ΣEBAΣTOΣ Bust of Nero, laureate,
undraped). Countermark: KAI in incuse
recangle (Howgego 543).
Rev: Obliterated. (KAIΣAPIA H ΠPOΣ
ΣEBAΣTΩΛIMENI Tyche standing left,
with foot on prow, holding bust and
scepter; L IΔ to left) Year 14=68 CE
Countermark: Bust to right in incuse
circle. (Howgego 115).
Note: The countermarks were probably
applied in A.D. 68/69, before the city
became a colony under Vespasian, to
validate coins of Nero.
AE21 x 19mm. 8.54gm. Axis:?
cf. Kadman II 10; RPC I 4862
Surface find Caesarea Maritima, 1977
J. Berlin Caesarea Collectionv-drome
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Caria, Cidramus. Vespasian Æ20Obv: ΟΥƐϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ ϹƐΒΑϹΤΟϹ. Laureate head of Vespasian, r.
Rev: ΠΑΜΦΙΛΟϹ ϹƐΛƐΥΚΟΥ ΚΙΔΡΑΜΗΝΩΝ. Cult statue of Artemis, veiled and with polos on head, standing facing.
Magistrate Pamphilos Seleukou.
RPC II, 1259ancientone
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Caria, Trapezopolis. Vespasian Ae22Obv: ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΣ ΣΕΒΑΣΤΟΣ / laureate head of Vespasian, r.
Rev: ΤΡΑΠΕΖΟΠΟΛΙΤΩΝ ΤΙ ΚΛΑΥΔΙ ΟΡΟΝΤΗΣ /Cybele standing facing, between two lions.
Magistrate Ti Klaudios Orontes.
RPC II, 1235ancientone
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CiliciaCilicia Trachea became the haunt of pirates, who were subdued by Pompey in 67 BC following a Battle of Korakesion (modern Alanya), and Tarsus was made the capital of the Roman province of Cilicia. Cilicia Pedias became Roman territory in 103 BC first conquered by Marcus Antonius Orator in his campaign against pirates, with Sulla acting as its first governor, foiling an invasion of Mithridates, and the whole was organized by Pompey, 64 BC, into a province which, for a short time, extended to and included part of Phrygia. It was reorganized by Julius Caesar, 47 BC, and about 27 BC became part of the province Syria-Cilicia Phoenice. At first the western district was left independent under native kings or priest-dynasts, and a small kingdom, under Tarcondimotus, was left in the east; but these were finally united to the province by Vespasian, AD 72. It had been deemed important enough to be governed by a proconsul.
ancientone
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Commemorative As, eagle, RIC II 497Vespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D. Commemorative Issued by Titus, Copper as, RIC II 497, Rome mint, 9.804g, 27.5mm, 180o, obverse IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III, laureate head right; reverse S C, eagle standing facing on globe, head right, wings spread, S C at sides; ex. FORVM
Podiceps
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Denarius of Vespasian (Probable Fouree)A (probable fouree) silver denarius of Vespasian, minted in Rome between 80-81 AD. This was minted after his death by his son, Titus. 19.36 g, 2.88 g
Obverse: DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, laureate head right
Reverse: S C inscribed on shield (remnants visible in hand) supported by two capricorns, orb below.
Attribution: RIC 357 (C2)chuy1530
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Denarius, Commemorative Issued by Titus, Two capricorns, RIC 63 TitusVespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D., Commemorative Issued by Titus. Silver denarius, RIC II Titus 63, RSC II 497, BMCRE II 129, F, bent, Rome mint, 2.763g, 17.9mm, 180o, posthumous, 80 - 81 A.D.; obverse DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, laureate head right; reverse S C, on shield supported by two Capricorns, globe below; deep divot on obverse gives the coin a cup shape. Ex FORVMPodiceps
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Divus VespasianVESPASIAN, posthumous memorial AR silver denarius, Struck by TITUS, 79AD. DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, laureate head of Divus Vespasian right. Reverse - S C inscribed on shield supported by two capricorns, orb below. RCV 2569, scarce. Well centered on a full sized flan. 19mm, 3.2g.fordicus
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Divus Vespasian(us)RIC II 361 (Titus), RSC 146.
Divus Vespasian, struck under Titus, denarius.
Rome mint, 80-81 AD.
Obv. DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS, laureate head right.
Rev. EX S C in exergue, slow quadriga left, car ornamented with swag across front, two figures brandishing spears, Victories flanking quadriga above.
18 mm 3,23 g.
This coin, minted by Titus in honor of his deceased father, is a 10th anniversary commemorative of the triumph held in Rome after the reconquest of Judaea.
The quadriga on the reverse is a tensa, a chariot shaped like a temple in which the attributes of the divine Vespasian were borne to the Circus in the procession before games, an honor to the deceased Vespasian voted to him by the Senate, EX S C (source: information from Curtis L. Clay).
Good silver and nice details. Nothing better than a quadriga reverse!Marsman
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Domitian - AS As, Rome Mint - VIRTUTI AUGUSTI - 10.92 GramsAncient Rome.
Emperor Domitian(81 - 96 AD), AE As.
Latin titles;
obv: Laureate crowned bust of Emperor Domitian facing right.
rev:" VIRTUTI AUGUSTI " - Virtus standing right in military dress, holding vertical spear in one hand, parazonium in other arm. One knee slightly raised.
" SC " in fields, to either side of Virtus.
Weight 10.92 Gramsrexesq
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Domitian as CaesarDomitian. As Caesar, AD 69-81. AR Denarius (18 mm, 2.8 gm.) Rome mint. Struck under Vespasian, AD 79.
Laureate head right / PRINCEPS IVVENTTVTIS, clasped hands before legionary eagle.
RIC II 1081 (Vespasian). Ajax
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Domitian as Caesar RIC II V0921Domitian as Caesar 70-81 A.D.. AR Denarius, Rome Mint, 76 A.D.* (3.34g, 19.2m, 6h). Obv: CAESAR A[VG F] DOMITIANVS, laureate head r. Rev: COS IIII, Pegasus right. RIC II V921, BMC V193, RSC 47. Ex HBJ.
*Domitian did not become COS V until early 77 A.D., but most coins with COS IIII belong to 76 A.D.
A common coin of Domitian as Caesar under Vespasian, this reverse still calls to me. Used by the Flavians for the first time in 76 A.D., the Pegasus reverse copies an earlier type from Augustus. Using earlier types from popular emperors, as well as the republic, was a hallmark of Flavian coinage. Lucas H
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Domitian as Caesar under Titus RIC II T0271Domitian as Caesar. AR Denarius. Rome Mint 80-81 A.D. (3.35g, 17.2m, 6h). Obv: CÉ…ESÉ…R DIVI F DOMITIÉ…NVS COS VII, laureate head right. Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS, draped seat with Corinthian helmet above. RIC II T271, Sear 2677, RSC 300a. Ex Warren Esty private collection.
This type, issued after the deification of Vespasian, is another of the pulvinaria types mirroring Titus’ issues of 80 A.D. The use of DIVI F corresponded with new precious metal types following the older types with AVG F and helps scholars date the deification of Vespasian.Lucas H
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Domitian Struck by Vespasian AntiochDomitian, AE Semis, Issued under Vespasian, Syria, Seleucis and Pieria-Antiochia ad Orontem 74 - 81 AD, Butcher 165 c.i.,
OBV: DOMITIAN-VS CAESAR, Laureate head left
REV: SC, Legend in laurel wreath of eight bunches of leaves terminating in pellet
SRukke
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Dora Vespasian Struck During Jewish WAr Vespasian, 69-79 AD, bronze of 22.6 mm. Struck at the mint of Dora, during the Jewish War, dated to 69/70 AD. Bust of Vespasian to right/Astarte standing lft. Rosenberger 23.
Maritima
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Dynastia Flawiuszy 69-96 ADURI https://rpc.ashmus.ox.ac.uk/coins/2/1511 json ttl rdf xml
Volume II
Number 1511
Region Pamphylia
City Perge
Reign Vespasian
Person (obv.) Vespasian (Augustus)
Obverse inscription ΟΥƐϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ
Obverse design laureate head of Vespasian, l.
Reverse inscription ΑΡΤƐΜΙΔΟϹ ΠƐΡΓΑΙΑϹ
Reverse design Artemis, with bow and torch in raised hands, running r.; to r., stag
Average diameter 18,5 mm
Average weight 3.85 g
Reference BMC 22
Specimens 6
Waldemar S
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EB0397 Vespasian / Eagle on CippusVespasian, AR Denarius, AD 76
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG, laureate head right.
Rev: COS [VII] across field, eagle standing front on base/cippus, wings open, head right.
References: RIC II 845.
Diameter: 19mm, Weight: 3.239 grams.
Note: Sold.EB
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EB0398 Vespasian / AequitasVespasian, AE As, 77-78 AD.
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS VIII PP, laureate head left, globe at point of bust.
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVSTI, Aequitas standing left, holding scales and sceptre. S-C across fields.
References: RIC 1229; Lyons 88.
Diameter: 26mm, Weight: 8.713 grams.
Note: Sold.EB
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EB0601 Vespasian / IsisVespasian, AE 25 of Alexandria. Year 4 = 71/72 AD.
Obv: Laureate head right.
Rev: Bust of Isis right, LΔ before.
References: Dattari 383.
Diameter: 25.5mm, Weight: 8.34 grams.
EB
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EB0683 Vespasian / NikeVespasian, 69-79, AR Hemidrachm of Caesarea, Cappadocia.
Obverse: AVTOKP KAICAΡ OVECΠACIANOC CEBA, laureate head right.
Reverse: Nike walking right holding wreath and palm.
Diameter: 15mm, Weight: 1.38g
References: Syd 94, Metcalf 17, RPC II 1659, SGI 735.
EB
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Egypt, Alexandria, 020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 2447, Bi-Tetradrachm, -/LH//--, Laureate head of Titus right, #1Egypt, Alexandria, 020 Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 2447, Bi-Tetradrachm, -/LH//--, Laureate head of Titus right, #1
avers: AYTOK KAIΣ ΣEBA OYEΣΠAΣIANOY, Laureate head of Vespasianus right, LH.
reverse: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤΩΡ ΤΙΤΟΣ ΚΑΙΣΑΡ, Laureate head of Titus right.
exergue: -/LH//--, diameter: 22,0-23,0mm, weight: 10,82g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Alexandria, Region: Egypt, Province: Egypt,
date: Year (LH) 8 = 75-76 A.D.,
ref:
RPC II 2447,
Emmet
Milne 0440-0443,
Geissen 0303-0304,
Dattari 0347-0349,
Kampmann-Ganschow 020.53,
Q-001quadrans
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Egypt, Alexandria, AD 069/070, Vespasian, AlexandriaVespasian
Alexandria
Billon-Tetradrachm
Obv.: AΥTOK KAIΣ ΣEBA OΥEΣΠAΣIANOΥ, laureate head right, date LB before
Rev.: AΛEΞANΔPEIA, Alexandria standing left, holding wreath and scepter.
Billon, 12.93g, 22mm
Ref.: Milne 397; Dattari 354; RPC 2414shanxi
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Egypt, Alexandria, AD 069/070, Vespasian, Eirene Vespasian
Alexandria
Billon-Tetradrachm
Obv.: AΥTOK KAIΣ ΣEBA OΥEΣΠAΣIANOΥ, laureate head right, date LB before
Rev.: EIPHNH, Eirene standing left, branch in right, caduceus in left
Billon, 12.65g, 23-26mm
Ref.: RPC II 2411, BMC 232, Dattari 357shanxi
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Egypt, Alexandria, AD 070/071, Vespasian, IsisVespasian
Alexandria
AE Diobol
Obv.: [AVT]OK KAIΣ ΣEBA OVEΣΠ[AΣIANOV], laureate head rigt
Rev.: LΓ, year=3, bust of Isis (looking like Vespasian) right, lotus flower atop head
AE, 9.80g, 25mm
Ref.: RG 287, D 379, RPC 2430shanxi
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Egypt, Alexandria, AD 073/075, Vespasian, crocodileVespasian
Alexandria
AE Dichalkon
Obv.: laureate head right
Rev.: Crocodile with disk above head right, LϚ = year 6 above
AE, 1.3g , 11.5mm
Ref.: Dattari 407, Kampmann/Ganschow 20.48
shanxi
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Egypt, Alexandria, Vespasian, Milne 388Vespasian, AD 69-79
AE - Tetradrachm, 12.81g, 24.87mm. 0°
struck 69/70 (RY 2)
obv. AVTOK KAIS SEBA OVESPASIANOV
Laureate head r.
in lower r. field below chin LB (year 2)
rev. EI . RE - NE
Eirene in long garment stg. frontal, head. l., holding in l. arm kerykeion and in raised r. hand grain easrs.
ref. Milne 388; Dattari 357; Köln 274f.; SNG Copenhagen 165f.
F+, dark brown patina
Jochen
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Flavian coin with two countermarks.Interesting Flavian coin most likely Vespasian, with two countermarks:
Larger c/m Howgego 133. Punch c. 9x7 mm.
Smaller Howgego 135. Punch c. 6.5x5 mm.
Both are recorded on Flavian coins from Antioch and Judaea,
but not on one and same coin.
The reverse has no details at all.
22mm and 6.67 grams.
Canaan
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Hadrian, head rightVespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D., Gadara, Decapolis
9266. Bronze AE 23, Spijkerman 26; SNG ANS 6, 1300, F, Decapolis, Gadara mint, 11.04g, 22.8mm, 0o, 71/72 A.D.; obverse OYECPACIANOC KAICAP, laureate head right, countermarked with "Hadrian's head"; reverse GADARA, Tyche standing left holding wreath and cornucopia, date LELP left ( = 71/72 A.D. ); interesting coin that relates to both the first and second jewish revolts; $160.00
The `Hadrian's head` countermark was struck during the Second Jewish Revolt (`Bar Kochbah` uprising) led by Simon Bar Kochba against Rome, 133 - 135 A.D. In 135 A.D., Hadrian destroyed Jerusalem and founded `Aelia Capitolina` on the site. The Jews were dispersed throughout the Roman Empire.
whitetd49
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Herod Agrippa II, (Herodian Tetrarch), Vespasian, Æ, 55-95 CEBronze of Agrippa II struck with portrait of Vespasian, dated HI = Year 18 = 79 CE, 28mm.
Obverse: AYTOKPA OYECIIACI KAICAPI CEBACTΩ (For the Emperor Vespasian Caesar Augustus), laureate bust of Vespasian right
Reverse: ETOY HIBA/AΓPI ΠΠA. Turreted Tyche standing left on platform holding full cornucopiae and ears of corn; inscription and date across fields.
Reference: Hendin 595, Meshorer 142, RPC II 2254.
Added to collection: January 18, 2006Daniel F
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Italy, Rome, Arch of TitusThe Arch of Titus was erected in 81 AD by Domitian shortly after the death of Titus to commemorate his consecratio and the victory of Titus together with their father, Vespasian, over the Jewish rebellion in Judaea.
The Arch if notable for the menorah depicted on the arch, one of the best period depictions of the artifact from the Jewish temple. Ron C2
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Italy- Rome- The Arch of TitoThe Arch of Titus (Arcus Titi) is a triumphal arch that commemorates the victory of the emperors Vespasian and Titus in Judea in 70 CE, which lead to the conquest of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Jewish temple there, and the triumphal procession the two held in Rome in 71 CE. It is situated at the E. entrance to the Forum Romanum, on the Via Sacra, south of the Temple of Amor and Roma, close to the Colosseum.
The arch was definitely erected sometimes after after the death of Titus in 81 CE, since Titus is referred to as Divus in the inscription. The deification of an emperor only happened posthumously after decision by the senate. It was most probably erected by emperor Domitian who succeeded his brother Titus in 81 CE, but it has also been suggested that it was built later, by Trajan, because of stylistic similarities with the Arch of Trajan at Benevento.
The Arch of Titus is a single arch, measuring 15.4m in height, 13.5m in width and 4.75m in depth, originally constructed entirely in Pantelic marble, with four semi-columns on each side. The external decorations include figures of Victoria with trophies on the spandrels and images of Roma and the Genius of Rome on the two keystones.
The inscription on the E. side is the original dedication of the arch by the senate. It reads:
Senatus
Populusque Romanus
divo Tito divo Vespasiani f(ilio)
Vespasiano Augusto
The senate
and people of Rome
to the divine Titus, son of the divine Vespasian,
Vespasianus Augustus
The inside the archway the monument is decorated with reliefs in marble. The S. side shows the beginning of the triumphal entry into Rome of the victorious emperor and his troops. The soldiers, walking left to right, are carrying the spoils of war, which include the seven armed candelabrum and the silver trumpets from the temple of Jerusalem. The signs carried by some soldiers displayed the names of the conquered cities and people. To the right the procession is entering the city through the Porta Triumphalis.
The N. side of the arch is decorated with a relief of the emperor in the triumphal procession. The emperor is riding a quadriga, which is lead by the goddess Roma, and he is crowned by Victoria flying above him. The lictors are walking in front of the chariot with their long ceremonial axes. After the emperor follow as a young man, who represents the Roman people, and an older man in toga, representing the senate. In the middle, under the vault a small relief shows the apotheosis of Titus, flying to the heavens on the back of an eagle.
Peter Wissing
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Italy- Rome- The arch of Tito and inside the archesThe Arch of Titus (Arcus Titi) is a triumphal arch that commemorates the victory of the emperors Vespasian and Titus in Judea in 70 CE, which lead to the conquest of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Jewish temple there, and the triumphal procession the two held in Rome in 71 CE. It is situated at the E. entrance to the Forum Romanum, on the Via Sacra, south of the Temple of Amor and Roma, close to the Colosseum.
The arch was definitely erected sometimes after after the death of Titus in 81 CE, since Titus is referred to as Divus in the inscription. The deification of an emperor only happened posthumously after decision by the senate. It was most probably erected by emperor Domitian who succeeded his brother Titus in 81 CE, but it has also been suggested that it was built later, by Trajan, because of stylistic similarities with the Arch of Trajan at Benevento.
The Arch of Titus is a single arch, measuring 15.4m in height, 13.5m in width and 4.75m in depth, originally constructed entirely in Pantelic marble, with four semi-columns on each side. The external decorations include figures of Victoria with trophies on the spandrels and images of Roma and the Genius of Rome on the two keystones.
The inscription on the E. side is the original dedication of the arch by the senate. It reads:
Senatus
Populusque Romanus
divo Tito divo Vespasiani f(ilio)
Vespasiano Augusto
The senate
and people of Rome
to the divine Titus, son of the divine Vespasian,
Vespasianus Augustus
The inside the archway the monument is decorated with reliefs in marble. The S. side shows the beginning of the triumphal entry into Rome of the victorious emperor and his troops. The soldiers, walking left to right, are carrying the spoils of war, which include the seven armed candelabrum and the silver trumpets from the temple of Jerusalem. The signs carried by some soldiers displayed the names of the conquered cities and people. To the right the procession is entering the city through the Porta Triumphalis.
The N. side of the arch is decorated with a relief of the emperor in the triumphal procession. The emperor is riding a quadriga, which is lead by the goddess Roma, and he is crowned by Victoria flying above him. The lictors are walking in front of the chariot with their long ceremonial axes. After the emperor follow as a young man, who represents the Roman people, and an older man in toga, representing the senate. In the middle, under the vault a small relief shows the apotheosis of Titus, flying to the heavens on the back of an eagle.
Peter Wissing
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Italy- Rome- The entrance to Forum and the arch of TitoThe Arch of Titus (Arcus Titi) is a triumphal arch that commemorates the victory of the emperors Vespasian and Titus in Judea in 70 CE, which lead to the conquest of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Jewish temple there, and the triumphal procession the two held in Rome in 71 CE. It is situated at the E. entrance to the Forum Romanum, on the Via Sacra, south of the Temple of Amor and Roma, close to the Colosseum.
The arch was definitely erected sometimes after after the death of Titus in 81 CE, since Titus is referred to as Divus in the inscription. The deification of an emperor only happened posthumously after decision by the senate. It was most probably erected by emperor Domitian who succeeded his brother Titus in 81 CE, but it has also been suggested that it was built later, by Trajan, because of stylistic similarities with the Arch of Trajan at Benevento.
The Arch of Titus is a single arch, measuring 15.4m in height, 13.5m in width and 4.75m in depth, originally constructed entirely in Pantelic marble, with four semi-columns on each side. The external decorations include figures of Victoria with trophies on the spandrels and images of Roma and the Genius of Rome on the two keystones.
The inscription on the E. side is the original dedication of the arch by the senate. It reads:
Senatus
Populusque Romanus
divo Tito divo Vespasiani f(ilio)
Vespasiano Augusto
The senate
and people of Rome
to the divine Titus, son of the divine Vespasian,
Vespasianus Augustus
The inside the archway the monument is decorated with reliefs in marble. The S. side shows the beginning of the triumphal entry into Rome of the victorious emperor and his troops. The soldiers, walking left to right, are carrying the spoils of war, which include the seven armed candelabrum and the silver trumpets from the temple of Jerusalem. The signs carried by some soldiers displayed the names of the conquered cities and people. To the right the procession is entering the city through the Porta Triumphalis.
The N. side of the arch is decorated with a relief of the emperor in the triumphal procession. The emperor is riding a quadriga, which is lead by the goddess Roma, and he is crowned by Victoria flying above him. The lictors are walking in front of the chariot with their long ceremonial axes. After the emperor follow as a young man, who represents the Roman people, and an older man in toga, representing the senate. In the middle, under the vault a small relief shows the apotheosis of Titus, flying to the heavens on the back of an eagle.
Peter Wissing
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Judaea, First Revolt Shekel, Year 2Judaea, First Jewish War AR Shekel. Dated year 2 (AD 67/8)
O: Hebrew script read from right to left SKL ISRAL “Shekel of Israel”, the date Shin Bet, "Year Two" of the revolution, above Omer cup with beaded rim
R: Hebrew script YRUSLIM H KDOSA “Jerusalem the Holy” around sprig of three pomegranates.
This coin was minted during times of great upheaval in Judaea as well as the rest of the Roman empire.
As Jewish factions were fighting for control in Jerusalem, General Vespasian's armies invaded Galilee in 67 CE with 60,000 men as they began the effort to quell the rebellion started a year earlier. Vespasian captured the commander of Galilee, Josephus ben Matthias, in the little mountain town of Jotapata, which fell after a fierce siege of 47 days. It was the second bloodiest battle of the revolt, surpassed only by the sacking of Jerusalem, and the longest except for Jerusalem and Masada.
Driven from Galilee, Zealot rebels and thousands of refugees arrived in Judea, causing even greater political turmoil in Jerusalem.
Meanwhile, back in Rome in 68 CE, Nero commits suicide, plunging the Empire into a civil war. Galba, Otho and Vitellius would assume the purple till Vespasian, leaving the battle in Judaea to Titus, brought the matter to a conclusion in 69.Nemonater
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KAI and laureate headSAMARIA. Caesarea Maritima. Nero. Æ 22. A.D. 68 (year 14 of the reign of Nero). Obv: (NEPΩNKAIΣAPΣEBAΣTOΣ). Laureate head right, star in front; countermark (1). Rev: (KA)IΣA(PIAHÎ POΣΣEBAΣTΩΛIMENI) or similar, LIΔ in field. Figure (Tyche?) standing left, holding human bust and standard; countermark (2) on figure. Ref: RPC 6842; Sear GIC 629. (Axis: 360°). Weight: 10.24 g. CM(1): KAI in rectangular punch, 8 x 5 mm. Howgego 543 (18 pcs). Note: The countermark was probably applied in A.D. 68/68, before the city became colony under Vespasian, to validate coins of Nero. CM(2): Laureate head right, in circular punch, 5 mm. Howgego 115 (12 pcs). Note: Likely applied at the same time as countermark (1). In fact, Howgego notes that it may well be the case that all coins bearing countermark (1) also bear countermark (2) and vice-versa. Collection Automan.Automan
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KAI and laureate headSAMARIA. Caesarea Maritima. Nero. Æ 23. A.D. 68 (year 14 of the reign of Nero). Obv: (NEPΩNKAIΣAPΣEBAΣTOΣ). Laureate head right, star in front; countermark on head (1). Rev: (KAIΣAPIAHÎ POΣΣEBAΣTΩΛIMENI) or similar, LIΔ in field. Figure (Tyche?) standing left, holding human bust and standard; countermark (2) on figure. Ref: RPC 6842; Sear GIC 629. Axis: 360°. Weight: 10.49 g. CM(1): KAI in rectangular punch, 8 x 6 mm. Howgego 543 (18 pcs). Note: The countermark was probably applied in A.D. 68/68, before the city became colony under Vespasian, to validate coins of Nero. CM(2): Laureate head right, in circular punch, 4 mm. Howgego 115 (12 pcs). Note: Likely applied at the same time as countermark (1). In fact, Howgego notes that it may well be the case that all coins bearing countermark (1) also bear countermark (2) and vice-versa. Collection Automan.Automan
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Lycaonia, Laodicea Combusta (Catacecaumene). Vespasian AE24.Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤⲰΡ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ΟΥƐϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ, laureate head of Vespasian, r.
Rev: ϹƐΒΑϹΤΗ ΝƐΙΚΗ ΚΛΑΥΔΙΟΛΑΟΔΙΚƐⲰΝ, Nike holding wreath and palm, standing, l.
RPC II, 1612.ancientone
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Nerva Aequitas Ӕ As (c. 97 A.D.)IMP NERVA CAES [AVG P M TR P ? COS ? P P], laureate head right / AEQVITAS AVGVST + S - C across fields, Aequitas standing left, holding scales and cornucopiae
Ó”, oval 25+ to 28mm, 10.23g, die axis 7.5h, base metal seems yellow, orichalcum? Can it be a dupontius?
Mint: Rome. Regnal period is end 96 – Jan 98 AD, so 97 is the most probable minting year.
End of the obverse legend is missing, so TR P and COS numbers are unknown. Thus three types are possible:
TR P COS II --> RIC II 51, Sear 3060 var
TR P COS III --> RIC II 77, Cohen 7, BMC 127, Sear 3060
TR P II COS III --> RIC II 94, Cohen 10
IMPerator NERVA CAESar AVGustus Pontifex Maximus (the high priest, starting with Augustus the emperor was always the head of state religion) TRibunitia Potestas (Tribunal power, the function of the tribune of the people, originally an important republican official, was "hijacked" by Augustus when he was building the imperial structure of power and subsequently became another emperor's title, renewed every year and thus very useful for dating coins, no number means first year of reign, II second), COnSul (under the Empire, the office of Consul remained of some importance and was held by the Emperor with some frequency) II or III (Nerva started his 3d consulship in 97, so II would mean minting year of 96, he also became a consul for 98, but since he died in January, COS IIII is very rare), Pater Patriae (Father of his Country, the title was held by most Augusti but usually not at the very beginning of the reign, in this case it was probably assumed immediately because of Nerva's old age). Aequitas = justice, equality, conformity, symmetry. Nemesis was originally understood as honest distributor of fortune, neither bad nor good, but in due proportion. Later it gained aspects of justice and divine retribution, but in Nemesis-Aequitas her qualities of honest dealing is emphasized. Aequitas Augusti symbolizes honesty, equality and justice of the emperor towards his subjects. The scales here mean honest measure rather than justice, and the cornucopia is self explanatory. SC = [Ex] Senatus Consulto (Senatus is genitive, Consulto is ablative of Consultum) = by decree of the Senate, i. e. the authority of the Senate approved minting of this coin (necessary to justify issue of copper alloy coins for which the intrinsic value was not obvious). As or assarius – the basic Roman bronze coin, reintroduced and firmly established for centuries by Augustus (often minted of pure red copper).
On the obverse to the right of the neck there is a mysterious symbol (looks like a special field mint mark in LRB, but these were not used before 4th century I think), which is too far in to be a distorted letter of the legend.
NERVA, *8 Nov 30 (or 35) AD (Narni, central Italy) † 27 Jan 98 AD (aged 67 or 62) Gardens of Sallust, Rome ‡ 18 Sep 96 – 27 Jan 98 (effectively abdicated in autumn 97 naming Trajan as his successor)
Marcus Cocceius Nerva was born in the village of Narni, 50 kilometers north of Rome. Ancient sources report the date as either 30 or 35. He had at least one attested sister, named Cocceia, who married Lucius Salvius Titianus Otho, the brother of the earlier Emperor Otho. Like Vespasian, the founder of the Flavian dynasty, Nerva was a member of the Italian nobility rather than one of the elite of Rome. Nevertheless, the Cocceii were among the most esteemed and prominent political families of the late Republic and early Empire, attaining consulships in each successive generation. The direct ancestors of Nerva on his father's side, all named Marcus Cocceius Nerva, were associated with imperial circles from the time of Augustus.
Not much of Nerva's early life or career is recorded, but it appears he did not pursue the usual administrative or military career. He was praetor-elect in the year 65 and, like his ancestors, moved in imperial circles as a skilled diplomat and strategist. He received many high honors during the reign of Nero and Flavians, including two ordinary (!) consulships of 71 and 90, usually for services that remained unclear, so probably of highly delicate and clandestine nature, e. g. he played a prominent role of uncovering at least two major conspiracies against the ruling emperors. During 69, the transitional Year of the Four Emperors he was nowhere to be seen, but then emerged on the winning Flavian side, which was quite a feat for a former Neronian loyalist and a relative of one of the defeated emperors, Otho. It is also known that Nerva had excellent literary abilities praised by his contemporaries.
On 18 September, 96, Domitian was assassinated in a palace conspiracy organised by court officials. The same day the Senate proclaimed Nerva emperor in somewhat obscure circumstances. Modern historians believe Nerva was proclaimed Emperor solely on the initiative of the Senate, within hours after the news of the assassination broke, to avoid the inevitable civil unrest, and neither him nor the Senate had anything to do with the conspiracy. The change of government was welcome particularly to the senators, who had been harshly persecuted during Domitian's reign. As an immediate gesture of goodwill towards his supporters, Nerva publicly swore that no senators would be put to death as long as he remained in office. He called an end to trials based on treason, released those who had been imprisoned under these charges, and granted amnesty to many who had been exiled. All properties which had been confiscated by Domitian were returned to their respective families. Nerva also sought to involve the Senate in his government, but this was not entirely successful.
Nerva had to introduce a number of measures to gain support among the Roman populace. As was the custom by this time, a change of emperor was to bring with it a generous payment of gifts and money to the people and the army. This was followed by a string of economic reforms intended to alleviate the burden of taxation from the most needy Romans. Furthermore, numerous taxes were remitted and privileges granted to Roman provinces. Before long, Nerva's expenses strained the economy of Rome and necessitated the formation of a special commission of economy to drastically reduce expenditures. The most superfluous religious sacrifices, games and horse races were abolished, while new income was generated from Domitian's former possessions. Because he reigned only briefly, Nerva's public works were few, instead completing projects which had been initiated under Flavian rule. This included extensive repairs to the Roman road system and the expansion of the aqueducts. The only major landmarks constructed under Nerva were a granary, known as the Horrea Nervae, and a small Imperial Forum begun by Domitian, which linked the Forum of Augustus to the Temple of Peace.
Despite Nerva's measures to remain popular with the Senate and the Roman people, support for Domitian remained strong in the army, which led to problems. Upon his accession, he had ordered a halt to treason trials, but at the same time allowed the prosecution of informers by the Senate to continue. This measure led to chaos, as everyone acted in his own interests while trying to settle scores with personal enemies.
The situation was further aggravated by the absence of a clear successor, made more pressing because of Nerva's old age and sickness. In October 97 these tensions came to a head when the Praetorian Guard laid siege to the Imperial Palace and took Nerva hostage. He was forced to submit to their demands, agreeing to hand over those responsible for Domitian's death. Nerva was unharmed in this assault, but his authority was damaged beyond repair. He realized that his position was no longer tenable without the support of an heir who had the approval of both the army and the people. Shortly thereafter, he announced the adoption of Trajan as his successor, and with this decision all but abdicated.
On 1 January, 98, at the start of his fourth consulship, Nerva suffered a stroke during a private audience. Shortly thereafter he was struck by a fever and died. His largest legacies were avoiding the civil war after the fall of Flavians and establishing a new dynasty that ruled almost until the end of the 2nd century and achieved "the golden age" of the Roman empire.Yurii P
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Nicaea AE22; Panther & KantharosVespasian, 69 - 79 A.D., Nicaea, under governor M. Plancius Varus, 22 mm, 5.65 g. Obverse: AUTOKRATORI KAISARI SEBASTW OUESPASIANW NEIKAI, laureate head right. Reverse: EPI MARKOU PLANKIOU OUAROU ANQUPATOU, panther resting paws on Kantharos, RPC 62. It was commonly thought in antiquity that panthers were fond of wine and that they could be captured by setting a bowl of it out and waiting until they had drunk to excess. Ex areich, photo credit areichPodiceps
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Pamphylia, Aspendos. Vespasian AE22.Obv: ΚΑΙϹΑΡ; laureate head of Vespasian, r.
Rev: ΑϹ; Apollo, radiate, standing facing with laurel branch; to l., lyre; to r. tripod.
D. Salzmann, ‘Vespasian in Aspendos’, SM 201 (2001), pp. 8–9ancientone
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Philip I Tetradrachm of Antioch, SyriaNGC Ancients = AU
Philip I (244 - 249 AD)
AR/BI Tetradrachm of Antioch, Syria.
(Titles in Greek;)
obv: Radiate crowned bust left, cuirassed with Medusa Head on center of breastplate. Seen from the front.
rev: Eagle, head right, with wreath in beak, standing on city name. 'SC' below.rexesq
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R., Cappadocia, Caesarea, Galatia-Cappadocia, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1659, AR-Hemidrachm, Nike advancing right, #1R., Cappadocia, Caesarea, Galatia-Cappadocia, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1659, AR-Hemidrachm, Nike advancing right, #1
avers: AYTOKP KAICAP OYЄCΠACIANOC CЄBA Laureate head of Vespasian to right.
reverse: Nike advancing right, holding wreath in her right hand and palm frond over her left shoulder.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 12,9-13,9mm, weight: 1,54g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Caesarea, Region: Cappadocia, Province: Galatia-Cappadocia,
date: 69-79 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1659, Sydenham 94, Metcalf 17, SGI 735,
Q-001quadrans
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R., Syria, Antioch, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1945, AR-Tetradrachm, ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle standing left, #1R., Syria, Antioch, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1945, AR-Tetradrachm, ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle standing left, #1
avers: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑΤ ΚΑΙΣΑ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΥ, Laureate head of Vespasian, right.
reverse: ΕΤΟΥΣ Β ΙΕΡΟΥ, Eagle with spread wings, standing left, on the club.; in left field, palm branch.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 23,8-24,3mm, weight: 15,67g, axis: 0h,
mint: Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, date: 69-70 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1945, Wruck 79, McAlee 334
Q-001quadrans
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R., Syria, Antioch, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1955, AR-Tetradrachm, ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with wreath in beak #1R., Syria, Antioch, 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 1955, AR-Tetradrachm, ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with wreath in beak #1
avers: ΑΥΤΟΚΡΑ ΟΥЄϹΠΑϹΙΑΝΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ϹЄΒΑϹΤΟϹ, Laureate head of Vespasian, right.
reverse: ЄΤΟΥϹ ΝЄΟΥ ΙЄΡΟΥ Γ, Eagle with spread wings, with wreath in beak standing left, on the club.; in left field, palm branch.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 25,0-26,5mm, weight: 15,13g, axis: 0h,
mint: Syria, (Seleucis and Pieria), Antioch, date: 70-71 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 1955, Wruck 84, McAlee 23,
Q-001quadrans
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R., Troas, Ilion, Asia (conventus of Adramyteum), 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 0893, AE-21, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left #1R., Troas, Ilion, Asia (conventus of Adramyteum), 020p Vespasian (69-79 A.D.), RPC II 0893, AE-21, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left #1
avers: (AYTOK K CEBAC) OYECPACIANOC, Laureate head of Vespasian right
reverse: TITω KAICAP I ΔOMITIANΩ KA IΛI, Confronted, laureate and draped busts of Titus right and Domitian left. Between them, cult image of Athena, standing on a low base, turned half left, brandishing spear and resting a hand on the shield.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 19,5-21,0mm, weight: 8,25g, axis: 0h,
mint: City: Ilium, Region: Troas, Province: Asia (conventus of Adramyteum),
date: 69-79 A.D.,
ref: RPC II 0893, Bellinger T127, BMC 46, SNG Cop 392,
Q-001quadrans
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Replica of a Domitian aureusDomitian, as Caesar (under Vespasian, AD 69–79). AV aureus (7.09 gm). Rome, AD 73. CAES AVG F DOMIT COS II, laureate head of Domitian right / Domitian on horseback left, raising right hand and holding scepter surmounted by human head. BMCRE 123. RIC 232. CBN 100. RCTV 2627
two marks, 1 Owl left ?, the other: LUMIareich
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RIC 0002 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA in exergue; Judaea std. r., head resting on hand, to r. of trophy
RIC 2 (C2). BMC 35. RSC 226. BNC 23. Hendin 1479.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, October 2003.
A reverse which commemorates the Roman victory over the Jews in the Jewish war of 66-70 AD. Here is what H. Mattingly in BMCRE II stated about the reverse: 'The veil over her head, the head sunk over her hand, her whole posture express utter dejection.' The reverse effectively captures the essence of a defeated foe and remains one of the most important historical types of the Flavian dynasty. Although listed in RIC as Vespasian's first denarius type, this reverse could not have been struck much before August 70 when Jerusalem fell to Titus Caesar and Judaea was truly 'Capta'. Although a very common type, these command premium prices in trade.
A coin that has a wonderful 'soldier-like' portrait and very detailed reverse. Very well centred for the type, most of which were struck on small flans.David Atherton
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