| Most viewed - 1. The Reign of Vespasian - Imperial Coins |
RIC 0852 Vespasian (1)167 viewsAR Denarius, 2.89g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VII; Pax, bare to the waist, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hand on lap
RIC 852 (C). BMC 184A. RSC 373. BNC 160.
Acquired from Wessex Coins, eBay, February 2017.
This seated Pax type is normally seen with a COS VI date, struck in conjunction with the opening of Vespasian's Temple of Peace in 75 (probably Vespasian's most common denarius type). Here is a fairly rare COS VII seated Pax from 76. The COS VII Pax could not have been struck for any length of time and likely dates to the first few weeks of 76 owing to its rarity. Furthermore, the reverse die appears to be a recut COS VI with an additional 'I', likely placing the piece soon after Vespasian became COS VII on 1 January 76. Perhaps this type was struck as a stop-gap until new reverse designs were produced and approved for the new year. Same reverse die as the RIC 853 plate coin. Although rated as 'common' in RIC this is a very difficult coin to find in trade.
Worn, but in good metal with all the major devices intact. The all important date is easy to read.David Atherton
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RIC 1433 Vespasian165 viewsAR Denarius, 3.30g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Turreted and draped female bust, r.; below, EPHE
RIC 1433 (C). BMC 459. RSC 293. RPC 835 (14 spec.). BNC 356.
Ex Paganecoins, eBay, c. 2005.
This reverse from Asia Minor celebrates the Pax Romana Vespasian brought to the world. Perhaps the female figure is Cybele, the Great Earth Mother.
Not a coin you come across often. Very sharp and clear with some minor wear on the high points of the obverse.David Atherton
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RIC 0964 Vespasian165 viewsAR Denarius, 3.60g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona, draped, seated l. on throne, adorned with corn-ears, feet on stool, holding on her lap a sack or corn-ears open, the ties, looped at one end, in her hands
RIC 964 (C2). BMC 295. RSC 28. BNC 258.
This reverse possibly belongs to a series of coins that promoted a Vespasianic agricultural programme. Many other denarii were issued at the same time with a similar 'rustic' theme, notably: the modius reverse, Ceres either seated or standing, sow with piglets, goat-herd milking a she-goat, bull, and the two oxen reverse.
A wonderful coin in excellent condition. The obverse detail is so crisp, I'm inclined to believe that the die was used for aureii too.David Atherton
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RIC 1063 Vespasian165 viewsAR Denarius, 2.84g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Ceres, draped, seated l., holding corn-ear and poppy in r. hand and torch upright in l.
RIC 1063 (R). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection, October 2006.
A denarius from Vespasian's last issue struck before his death in June 79. The type likely refers to the emperor's careful stewardship of the grain supply. Extremely rare with left facing portrait. Missing from the BM and Paris collections and unlisted in RSC. There is one example in Oxford and another known from an R. Ratto sale from 1930.
A wonderful coin in hand, marred slightly by a chip on the obverse. Perhaps a recent detectorist find.David Atherton
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RIC 1302 Vespasian165 viewsAR Denarius, 3.36g
Tarraco mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CEASAR AVG F COS CAESAR AVG F PR; Heads of Titus, bare, r., and Domitian, bare, l., confronting
RIC 1302 (R). BMC 351A. RSC 5. BNC 2.
Ex Pecunem 35, 6 September 2015, lot 582.
Vespasian announced his intentions of founding a dynasty to the Senate - "My successor shall be my son or no one at all." He struck coins to advertise the fact and the type with confronting heads of Titus and Domitian is one of the more blatant examples of this. The type is most commonly encountered from Rome, however, a much rarer example of the type was struck at Tarraco in Spain. They can be distinguished from Rome by style and the use of dots in the legend. It can be difficult to sort these Spanish denarii out from the Rome examples because at this early stage Rome did not have a standard style. The Paris specimen (BNC 2) is erroneously attributed to Rome. My coin is a reverse die match with the Gemini X, lot 733 specimen.
A few scrapes and the use of a worn die do not distract too much from this coin's appeal.
David Atherton
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RIC 1432 Vespasian165 viewsAR Denarius, 3.29g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm; at lower l., EPHE
RIC 1432 (R2). BMC p. 96, *. RSC 281. RPC 834 (2 spec.). BNC 354.
Acquired from Pavlos S. Pavlov, May 2018.
Victory advancing left was a commonly struck reverse type at Ephesus up until Vespasian's COS III issue. From this issue going forward, the mint favoured the Victory advancing right and sparingly struck the advancing left variant. As a matter of fact, the left Victory virtually disappears by the time the COS V issue was produced. So, a very rare type for COS III - just 2 Victory left specimens versus 14 right specimens cited in RPC.
Fabulous Ephesian style!
David Atherton
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RIC 0943 Vespasian164 viewsAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VIII in ex.; Pair of Oxen, under yoke, l.
RIC 943 (C). BMC 206. RSC 133. BNC 184.
Ex Harlan J. Berk BBS 145, 14 September 2005, lot 237.
This coin was struck as a part of Vespasian's agricultural issue in 77 A.D. The BMCRE also states it may be a "colonist" type, "referring to an extension of the pomoerium."
A decent coin in hand with a severe looking Vespasian.David Atherton
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RIC 0863 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]164 viewsAR Denarius, 3.37g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIAN; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IOVIS CVSTOS; Jupiter stg. facing, with patera over altar and sceptre
RIC 863 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 159, 3 June 2008, lot 271.
Rated R2 by the RIC and unlisted previously, this was a most difficult coin for me to find.
Here is Curtis Clay's text from HJB's 159th buy or bid sale, which I cannot improve upon:
"A rare variant of the obverse legend for this reverse type, only recently published, allowing us to date the type's introduction precisely to 76 AD. In the course of that year, the obverse legend on Titus' gold and silver coins was expanded from T CAESAR IMP VESPASIAN to the same with VESPASIANVS, and the new form lasted until his accession as Augustus in 79. Titus' IOVIS CVSTOS reverse type was previously recorded only with obverse VESPASIANVS, so datable 76-79 AD; but RIC-863 and our coin with obverse VESPASIAN suggest that the type was introduced precisely in the year of the legend change, 76. RIC-863 cites two specimens of this denarius, in Berlin and in a private collection; we have seen a couple of others in trade or private collections over the past few years."
It's not everyday you come across a variant which can pin down the dating of a well known type! Not only is the coin rare, but the portrait on this example, in my opinion, is quite exceptional. David Atherton
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RIC 0039 Vespasian163 viewsAR Denarius, 2.69g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VES-P AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TRI POT II COS III P P; Mars adv. r., with spear and aquila
RIC 39 (R). BMC 59A. RSC 564. BNC 41.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, June 2012. Ex Maridvnvm Collection.
An exceedingly rare Vespasian denarius struck in 71. The reverse features the familiar Mars walking right with spear and aquila, but it is the shorter obverse legend used in early 71 and the (unique to this series) TRI POT II COS III P P reverse legend that makes this a rare denarius. Oddly enough, the only other denarius from the same series (Pax seated) was minted in copious amounts.
The coin itself has deep cabinet toning and good centring. Very nice in hand. Vespasian seems to be cracking a rare smile too.David Atherton
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RIC 0045 Vespasian162 viewsAR Denarius, 3.48g
Rome Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VES-P AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX across field; Vesta, draped, hooded, seated l., holding simpulum in extended r. hand, l. hand at side
RIC 45 (C). BMC 55. RSC 358. BNC 38.
Acquired from NB Numismatics, April 2007.
This Vesta type highlights the religious functions of the Emperor. Vespasian seemed to be stressing his sacred duties as chief priest with many of the reverse types from this issue.
The PON MAX variety is difficult to find in trade, despite its frequency rating of 'common' according to RIC. The TRI POT variety is far more commonly encountered. David Atherton
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RIC 1408 Vespasian161 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Ephesus Mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and horizontal Φ; in oak-wreath
RIC 1408 (C). BMC 439. RSC 37a. RPC 817 (10 spec.). BNC 336.
Acquired from Ancient Imports, June 2005.
This is a fairly common type with the Φ mint mark. A similar type was minted at Rome with SPQR within the wreath, this issue predates it.
Nicely centered with deep toning, large flan, and in excellent style. Good example of this type. Obverse die match with RIC 1411 plate coin.David Atherton
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RIC 1445 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]161 viewsAR Denarius, 3.01g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: DOMITIANVS CAESAR AVG F; Bust of Domitian, cuirassed, seen from front, Medusa head on breast of cuirass, fold of cloak on left shoulder, head bare, r.
Rev: AVG and EPHE in oak wreath
RIC 1445 (R). BMC 469. RSC 22. RPC 846 (4 spec.). BNC 362.
Ex CNG E88, 14 September 2011, lot 1302.
Minted in 71 AD, this denarius is part of the first series ever issued for Domitian. The draped and cuirassed bust type chosen here is unusual for the Flavian era...one wonders why it was used only for Domitian and not Vespasian or Titus. The reverse is a standard type shared with Vespasian and Titus at Ephesus.
I'm not sure why it has taken me so long to obtain a Domitian as Caesar denarius from Ephesus, these are wonderful coins.
David Atherton
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RIC 0982 Vespasian160 viewsAR Denarius, 3.42g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IMP XIX in ex.; Sow left, with three young.
RIC 982 (C2). BMC 212. RSC 213. BNC 188.
Acquired from Tom Cederlind, December 2007.
The type was issued as part of an agrarian series of denarii that Vespasian minted in 77-77 AD.
I don't know why I put off getting this type with a right facing portrait for so long. A solid example of a fairly well known type, with a good portrait and a fine style on the reverse.David Atherton
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RIC 1494 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]160 viewsAR Denarius, 2.81g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: COS IIII above; Pegasus r.
RIC 1494 (R2). BMC 488 bis. RSC 47 var. RPC 1465 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex G&N, eBay, 27 August 2015.
An unknown eastern mint struck a spate of denarii in 76 which copied many contemporary types from Rome. Both RIC and RPC speculate it possibly could be Ephesus, citing a similar style with a previous Ephesian issue from 74 and the use of an annulet as a mint mark. The issue is extremely rare. This denarius copies the much more common Pegasus type struck at Rome for Domitian. Domitian's connection to this unusual type perhaps can be explained by Pegasus' association with Athena/Minerva, Domitian's patron goddess. These eastern denarii are understandably confused with the issues from Rome, however, they can be distinguished by style and the annulet (if visible) below the bust.
A fine styled, nicely toned denarius.David Atherton
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RIC 0944 Vespasian159 viewsAR Denarius, 3.30g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: COS VIII in ex.; Pair of Oxen, under yoke, l.
RIC 944 (C). BMC 209. RSC 134a. BNC 185.
Acquired from Akropolis Coins, August 2007.
This reverse is part of an agrian programme Vespasian implemented. Most of the types issued around this time echo the same country theme (goat herder milking goat, modius, Sow and piglets, ect...). This is the rarer left facing bust of the type, which were minted by a ratio of 10:1 to the right facing busts.
A wonderful coin with a high relief reverse, sturdy portrait, and in a good style. A fine example of Flavian coinage. I was very happy to add this to the collection.David Atherton
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RIC 0793 Vespasian159 viewsAR Quinarius, 1.41g
Rome mint, 75(?) AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 793 (R). BMC 288 var. (rev. legend). RSC 614a var. (same). BNC -.
Acquired from CGB, April 2016.
Vespasian revived the quinarius after a long hiatus going back to the time of Augustus. Striking this denomination was quite in keeping with the antiquarian flavour of the Rome mint during the reign. The largest issue of quinarii, of which this coin is part of, was minted in 75. Keeping to tradition, Vespasian employed two Victory types (advancing and seated) for the reverses. They are all quite rare. Dating this undated issue is a little tricky. The quinarii struck before 75 have AVGVSTI in the reverse legend, while those struck after 75 use the shorter AVGVST. This undated issue employs both forms, therefore it fits neatly to 75.
This example is in exceedingly fine condition and style for the series. David Atherton
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RIC 1400 Vespasian158 viewsAR Denarius, 2.81g
Ephesus mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, horizontal Φ
RIC 1400 (R). BMC 434A. RSC 65c. RPC 809 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex G&N, eBay, 04 June 2012. Ex Hirsch 280, 9 February 2012, lot 4664.
Part of an early series from Ephesus, the coin is quite rare, as are most of the coins from the same issue. The BM has two specimens.
Minted on a fairly tight flan, the coin has a pleasing style and is in good metal.
Thanks to Curtis Clay for additional attribution help.David Atherton
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RIC 1395 Vespasian158 viewsAR Denarius, 3.04g
Ephesus Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS; Titus and Domitian veiled, togate, stg. front (heads l.), each with patera
RIC 1395 (R3). BMC 430. RSC 248. RPC 805 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex CNG E368, 10 February 2016, lot 406.
Part of the first group of denarii struck at Ephesus. Unlike the other groups struck at the mint, this very rare early issue did not use mint-marks. My specimen is apparently the second known of the Titus and Domitian togate type (although the other specimen in the BM is off-centre and a possible mint-mark could be off flan).
A pleasing coin with a fine Ephesian style portrait. Much better in hand.David Atherton
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RIC 0986 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]157 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIII in ex. Sow l., with three young
RIC 986 (C). BMC 227. RSC 104. BNC 203.
Acquired from Ancient Imports, October 2007.
This coin is part of the 'agrarian' issue Vespasian and Titus struck in 77 to 78 AD.
A choice obverse with a slightly off center strike on the reverse, a much better example than is normally found for this type.David Atherton
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RIC 1562 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]155 viewsAR Denarius, 3.26g
Antioch Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT; Bust of Titus, laureate, draped, bearded, r.
Rev: Palm tree: to l., Titus stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r.
RIC 1562 (C). BMC 518. RSC 392. RPC 1934 (11 spec.). BNC 322. Hendin 1492.
Acquired from WCNC, March 2008.
A Judaea Capta type which copies a reverse from Rome.
Though rated as common in the RIC, it is a fairly difficult reverse type to find. I like the draped busts of this issue.
David Atherton
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RIC 1554 Vespasian154 viewsAR Denarius, 3.48g
Antioch mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVGVSTI; Concordia, draped, seated, l., holding patera extended in r. hand and cornucopiae in l.
RIC 1554 (R2). BMC 505. RSC 74. RPC 1927 (6 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Civitas Galleries, November 2005.
An exceedingly rare Antiochene Concordia denarius copying a common reverse design from Rome.
I love the denarii from the Antioch mint. Normally the flans are quite small, but this one is large enough to show some of the beaded boarder.David Atherton
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RIC 1444 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]154 viewsAR Denarius, 3.42g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMPERATOR T CAESAR AVGVSTI F; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Turreted and draped female bust, r; below EPHE
RIC 1444 (R2). BMC p. 98 note. RSC 127. RPC 845 (0 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Ephesus Numismatics, April 2010.
The reverse features a turreted female bust, most likely Tyche with the attributes of a City Goddess. Here she is symbolic of the world peace Vespasian has inaugurated after the recent Civil War and revolts in Judaea and Batavia. The type was also struck for Vespasian and Domitian as Caesar and is one of the more fascinating reverses minted at Ephesus.
David Atherton
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RIC 1399 Vespasian154 viewsAR Denarius, 3.18g
Ephesus mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP•CAES VESPAS•AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and horizontal Φ; in oak-wreath
RIC 1399 (C). BMC 434. RSC 37. RPC 808 (10 spec.). BNC 332.
Ex Roma E-Sale 28, 2 July 2016, lot 456. Ex Thersites Collection.
Vespasian's undated Ephesian Group 2 denarii are all fairly scarce. The AVG in oak-wreath type is probably the most common of the issue. These early undated issues were most likely struck in late 69 or early 70.
Despite the strange flan shape, struck in fine style and darkly toned.David Atherton
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RIC 1495 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]153 viewsAR Denarius, 3.26g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: FIDES PVBL; Hands clasped over caduceus, two poppies and two corn ears
RIC 1495 (R). BMC 491. RSC -. RPC 1467 (4 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Solidus, eBay, 29 November 2013.
In 76 AD a mysterious series of denarii appeared in Asia Minor for Vespasian and his sons two years after Ephesus stopped minting denarii. The reverse types were copied from those contemporaneously produced at Rome and featured many mules and blundered legends. Often an 'o' mint mark is visible below the busts, giving rise to the theory that these may be the product of Ephesus. The style is also similar to the last series known from that mint.
Here is a rare reverse type for Domitian as Caesar. At Rome this type is only known for Vespasian and Titus. BMC 491 is listed as no mint mark below bust. A fine style portrait struck on a large flan. Same obverse die as my V1492.
David Atherton
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RIC 0773 Vespasian153 viewsAR Denarius, 2.89g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, bare, l.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Pax, bare to the waist, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hand on lap
RIC 773 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, November 2017.
Here is an interesting situation of an extremely rare obverse paired with the most common reverse type ever struck for Vespasian's denarii. The Pax type with the common laureate right portrait was struck in vast quantities to commemorate the opening of the Temple of peace. The bare head left portraits are seen sparingly (Buttrey - 'Fleetingly') on the denarii of 75 and 76 exclusively with the seated Pax reverse. This denarius is the second known specimen of the exceedingly rare bare head COS VI Pax from 75. Unsurprisingly, it shares obverse dies with the unique specimen cited in RIC. The bare head portraits seem to have been the experimental work of one engraver operating at the mint in 75/76. Too bad this portrait variant didn't catch on, it has a delightfully attractive spare elegance.
Struck in fine style and in good metal.David Atherton
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RIC 1081 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]152 viewsAR Denarius, 3.45g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Clasped hands holding legionary eagle set on prow
RIC 1081 (C2). BMC 269. RSC 393. BNC 240.
Acquired from Beast Coins, April 2007.
The reverse represents 'Concordia Militum', harmony of the troops. Domitian quite possibly was plotting against Titus after Vespasian's death by appealing to the troops with a double donative. This coin might provide numismatic evidence of such. Suetonius states: " On the death of his father he hesitated for some time whether to offer a double largess to the soldiers, and he never had any compunction about saying that he had been left a partner in the imperial power, but that the will had been tampered with."
A nice coin with average wear and an interesting history behind it.
David Atherton
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RIC 1481 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]152 viewsAR Denarius, 3.29g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESP CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck off flan
Rev: COS V across field;Eagle stg. facing on garlanded altar, wings open, head r.
RIC 1481 (R). BMC 485. RSC 61. RPC 1457 (4 spec.). BNC 373.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
Ephesus stopped minting Imperial denarii in 74 AD. Mysteriously, a series of denarii were minted in 76 in Asia Minor with no apparent purpose. The mint is thought to be Ephesus as well. However, previously the mint had excellent quality control...the 76 series lacks all of that and then some! Mules, muddled titles (PON MAX for Titus!), and reverse types mixed between Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian. A truly odd series. Most likely minted for local use.
This Titus denarius from the series has no blundered mistakes. A fabulous portrait, different in style from the previous Ephesus series but still artistic, IMHO.
David Atherton
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RIC 0518 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]151 viewsAR Denarius, 2.56g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: SALVS AVG; Salus std. l., with patera
RIC 518 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
The coin was minted in 73 AD when Titus shared the censorship with Vespasian, as evidenced by the CENS in the obverse legend. The reverse features Salus, which might be an allusion to the emperor Vespasian's health. The reverse type is rare for Titus and extremely rare with the obverse legend ending in CENS. Unlisted in the major catalogs until the new Flavian RIC II was published, it cites 2 examples - one in Vienna, the other in the Walter Holt collection.
A decent coin in good metal featuring an excellent early portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 1440 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]151 viewsAR Denarius, 3.27g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMPERATOR T CAESAR AVGVSTI F; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, EPHE
RIC 1440 (R). BMC 467. RSC 39. RPC 843 (4 spec.). BNC 358.
Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N. Sneh Collection, lot 741.
Another great portrait of the young Titus from this artistically pleasing mint. The reverse is one shared with Vespasian.
An obverse and reverse die match to the RIC plate coin, perhaps an indication of its rarity.David Atherton
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RIC 1339 Vespasian151 viewsAR Denarius, 3.07g
Uncertain Spanish mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: LIBERTAS PVBLICA; Libertas stg. l., with pileus and rod
RIC 1339 (R2). BMC 360. RSC 259. BNC -.
Ex Pecunem 39, 4 January 2016, lot 874.
Late in 69 during the waning stages of the Civil War, Spain began striking coins for Vespasian. Some of these Spanish issues may be earlier than those struck at Rome. The Libertas reverse was copied from the Spanish coinage of Galba and both he and Vitellius issued left facing portraits in the province. The metal analysis by K. Butcher and M. Ponting of this issue shows Spanish silver was used in its production, however, the location of the mint is a mystery. The coin's style is different than those traditionally attributed to Tarraco(?), so another mint must have been active in the province. Also of note, the style is very similar to those of RIC's Uncertain western mint group 2 denarii. The reverse type of Libertas was used by the various contenders during the Civil War to show they were rescuing the Roman people from 'tyranny'.
A wonderful portrait in similar style to the Spanish issues of Vitellius. Very rare.David Atherton
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RIC 1060 Vespasian150 viewsAR Denarius, 2.75g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Capricorn l.; below, globe
RIC 1060 (R). BMC 252. RSC 556. BNC 218.
Ex eBay, November 2012.
A denarius from Vespasian's last issue struck before his death in June 79. It copies an Augustan reverse design featuring Capricorn his natal sign. A rare left facing portrait variety of the type. Perhaps scarcer than the RIC frequency rating of 'Rare'?
Worn but well centred with nice chocolate toning. Much better in hand.
David Atherton
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RIC 1397 Vespasian150 viewsAR Denarius, 3.29g
Ephesus mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Turreted and draped female bust, r.
RIC 1397 (R). BMC p. 89,†. RSC 291. RPC 807 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from NB Numismatics, March 2017. Ex VAuctions 292 (Imperial Coins), 6 December 2012, lot 130.
The first denarius issue at Ephesus was struck without mint marks and all of them are quite rare. This particular denarius has a peculiarly crude style compared with other Ephesian denarii. RIC II.1 authors Carradice and Buttrey comment about this coin in the introduction on p. 8 - 'a recent example seen in trade (Imperial Coins 2004) had the correct legend (and good weight for a denarius, at 3.29g) but a very different, inferior style on both the obverse and reverse. Is such a coin a barbarous imitation, or simply the product of a less able die-engraver employed at the start of a mint's output?' Curiously, the RIC plate coin of this same type from Oxford is in a similarly crude style. Interesting to note that Mattingly in BMCRE II doubted the type existed without mint mark, which indicates how rare it is!
Struck on a small flan in high relief.
David Atherton
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RIC 0861 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian] (2)149 viewsAR Denarius, 3.43g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIAN; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS V across field; Eagle head l. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 861 (C). BMC 191. RSC 59. BNC 166.
Acquired from Roma Numismatics, November 2009.
Although the type is described in RIC as Eagle with thunderbolt in claws, I see no thunderbolt on this specimen. The altar seems to be less decorated than on other examples as well. A variant lacking thunderbolt and with a less decorated base.
Good portrait and decent reverse.David Atherton
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RIC 1475 Vespasian149 viewsAR Denarius, 3.48g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: FIDES PVBL; Hands clasped over caduceus, two poppies and two corn ears
RIC 1475 (R). BMC 490. RSC 163a. RPC 1452 (6 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Malter Galleries, December 2010.
Anyone with a passing knowledge of Flavian coinage is aware of the series of denarii Ephesus issued early in Vespasian's reign, but few know about a later group of denarii Ephesus(?) issued a couple of years later in 76 AD
This later issue can be identified by the use of a letter 'o' mint mark below the bust. The style and use of a mint mark suggests the minting city is Ephesus, however the exact location is unknown. If it is indeed Ephesus then something went horribly awry with their quality control since the previous issue in 74. Reverse types clearly meant for Vespasian may end up on a coin of Titus or Domitian and vice versa (see RIC 1480 for a good example of this type of error).
Why this short lived series was minted at all is a mystery.
The reverse itself is a copy of a Rome mint type from 73 AD and most likely symbolizes good faith in agricultural prosperity. I believe the overall style is much better than the Rome mint examples for both obverse and reverse. The poppies in particular seem to be more pronounced and better executed.
For lovers of the eastern Flavian mints there is a lot to admire here.
David Atherton
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RIC 1453 Vespasian149 viewsAR Denarius, 3.01g
Ephesus mint, 73 AD (Late)
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS IIII TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, star
RIC 1453 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. RPC 850 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Den of Antiquity, eBay, June 2013.
A very rare Ephesus Group 7 denarius from 73 AD. This series has the rare COS IIII date minted very late in the year. Including my example, there are seven specimens of the Ceres seated type I know of (Coincidentally, Lucas posted one a week ago). As a historical reference, the siege of Masada took place earlier in the year and Vespasian and Titus assumed a joint censorship.
The coin needs a bit more cleaning, but I'm leaving it as is because it looks wonderful, IMHO.David Atherton
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RIC 0951 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian147 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VI in exergue; Two oxen, yoked, l.
RIC 951 (R). BMC 225. RSC 67. BNC 201.
Acquired from Calgary Coin, May 2008.
This reverse type was shared both by Vespasian and Titus (as most precious metal types were) and is part of the agrarian themed denarii issued around the time. Like many denarii of the period the type is a copy of an earlier Republican one. Rated rare by the RIC.
I quite like the style of this one.David Atherton
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RIC 0858 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]147 viewsAR Denarius, 3.25g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIAN; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS V (high in field); bull stg. r.
RIC 858 (R). BMC 186. RSC 52. BNC 163.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This denarius of Titus as Caesar from 76 AD obviously shows a bull (even those with a passing knowledge of farm animal anatomy can tell the difference) and not a cow, but the question is why was this type minted with both sexes portrayed, sometimes ambiguously?
The BMCRE proffers this type as a reference to the famous 'Cow of Myron' statue and the coin commemorates the placing of it in Vespasian's new Temple of Peace. If this is so, why do some of the types show a bull?
Perhaps the type is nothing more than an agricultural reference like so many of the other denarii the Flavians issued in the last half of Vespasian's reign.
Decent coin with good metal and a well rendered bull on the reverse.David Atherton
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RIC 1434 Vespasian147 viewsAR Denarius, 3.28g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Bust of woman, draped, wearing crown of towers, r.; EPHE in l. field
RIC 1434 (R). BMC 459 var. (rev. mintmark right). RSC 293 var. (same). RPC 835 var. (same). BNC 356 var. (same).
Acquired from Künker, June 2016. Ex Nudelman Numismatica Auction 10, 13 June 2011, lot 46.
RIC, alone among the major references, assigns a separate catalogue number to this rare variant with the mint mark behind the reverse bust. It's much more common to find the mint mark below bust. This variant seems to have been struck at a ratio of 1:10 compared with the common variety. A reverse type not struck at Rome.
Fantastic portraits in superb Ephesian style.
David Atherton
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RIC 0980 Vespasian (1)146 viewsAR Denarius, 2.98g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, right.
Rev: IMP XIX across field; Modius, standing on three legs, containing five ears of corn upright and two hanging over the sides
RIC 980 (C). BMC 216. RSC 216. BNC 190.
Acquired from Zeus Coins, January 2008.
A propaganda type which assures the Roman people Vespasian will keep them well fed.
I've had the left facing example of this type for a while and thought it was time to get the right facing bust. For some reason the new RIC lists the right facing example as less common than the left facing.
Good metal, standard portrait, and some minor die flaws in the obverse field.David Atherton
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RIC 1422AA Vespasian146 viewsAR Denarius, 3.29g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR PPP; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and BY in oak wreath
RIC 1422AA (R2). BMC p. 94 note. RSC 38. RPC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Ancient Imports, February 2012.
Struck in 71 AD at Ephesus, the type AVG within wreath is not rare in and of itself, however, what makes this coin special is the mint mark. Normally this type dated COS III should have EPHE as the mint mark, here there is a faint BY mark between the ties. Cohen records this reverse but the new RIC and BMC list it as unverified. Thanks to Harry Sneh I know of two other examples of this type and I was able to find one more online sold by Spink in 2004, so a total of four examples. RIC II author Ian Carradice has been made aware of this and presumably will list it as 1422AA in the RIC II addenda.
David Atherton
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RIC 1426 Vespasian146 viewsAR Denarius, 2.95g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Turreted and draped female bust, r.; below, BY
RIC 1426 (R2). BMC 450. RSC 293a. RPC 828 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Helios, eBay, 15 July 2012.
A rare mint mark for this type with the obverse legend COS III. Normally one would find the EPHE mint mark on the reverse. Apparently all the other coins from the same series are R3! A rare coin indeed.
The obverse is a bit flatly struck but otherwise the coin has excellent eye appeal.David Atherton
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RIC 1446 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]146 viewsAR Denarius, 3.04g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: DOMITIANVS CAESAR AVG F; Bust of Domitian, cuirassed, seen from front, Medusa head on breast of cuirass, fold of cloak on left shoulder, head bare, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, EPHE
RIC 1446 (C). BMC 470. RSC 38. RPC 847 (10 spec.). BNC 363.
Acquired from Lucernae, eBay, January 2015.
In Domitian's first imperial coinage issue he was given special treatment regarding the bust type chosen. The engravers at Ephesus depicted him cuirassed with a cloak draped over his left shoulder. Vespasian and Titus were not engraved so elaborately (although at Antioch Titus' bust is draped). Why this is so is a mystery. Unusually Domitian shares the same reverse types as Vespasian and Titus in this series, unlike at Rome where he largely had his own unique types. This Ceres reverse is probably the most common of his Ephesus denarii.
A worn coin to be sure, but the handsome bust shines through the wear. David Atherton
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RIC 0777 Vespasian145 viewsAR Denarius, 3.50g
Rome mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MA-X TR P COS VI; Victory, draped, standing l. on prow, holding wreath extended in r. hand and palm upright in l.
RIC 777 (C2). BMC 166. RSC 368. BNC 142.
Acquired from York Coins, November 2004.
The Victory on prow is a reference to a naval victory, perhaps the naval battle on the Sea of Galilee in 67 during the Jewish War.
A reverse type that is a bit scarce.David Atherton
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RIC 0774 Vespasian145 viewsAR Denarius, 3.36g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Securitas, bare to the waist, seated l., feet on stool, r. arm bent and resting on head, l. arm on side of chair
RIC 774 (C). BMC 165. RSC 367. BNC 141.
Acquired from David L. Tranbarger, March 2006.
This type is commonly confused with the similar Pax reverse from the same issue. Securitas' raised arm differnates it from Pax. Frequency rating of 'common' in RIC, although scarce in trade.
A well toned example of a hard to find reverse.David Atherton
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RIC 0520 Vespasian144 viewsAR Denarius, 3.46g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate r.
Rev: FIDES PVBL; Clasped hands holding winged caduceus upright, between poppy and corn-ear on either side
RIC 520 (C). BMC 86. RSC 164. BNC 75.
Acquired privately from Beast Coins, January 2006.
An important reverse type that was struck in both bronze and silver. The BMCRE states 'the clasped hands symbolize concord, the caduceus commercial prosperity, and the poppy and corn ears for agriculture.' The legend FIDES PVBL means the promise of public protection.
Another hard to find reverse type. The above picture is a preliminary dealer picture. The reverse is a bit off center, but the coin is in excellent condition. David Atherton
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RIC 0522 Vespasian144 viewsAR Denarius, 3.42g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: SALVS AVG; Salus std. l., with patera
RIC 522 (C). BMC 87. RSC 432. BNC 76.
Acquired from Rubicon Coins, August 2008.
Salus, the personification of health and welfare, is seen here overseeing the Emperor's health and safety.
Salus is seen twice on Vespasian's denarii. This example with the longer COS IIII obverse legend is the rarer of the two types.David Atherton
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RIC 0544 Vespasian144 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG CENS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONTIF MAXIM; Nemesis adv. r., holding caduceus over snake
RIC 544 (R). BMC 97. RSC 385. BNC 85.
Ex eBay, June 2009.
The reverse is copied from a denarius of Claudius. Curtis Clay has proposed that these 'revival' types were recycled because Vespasian melted down many older denarii and minted these antique reverse types to replace them. It would be interesting to know why certain types were chosen and others forgotten about. Did Nemesis hold a special meaning to the Flavians?
This type is infrequently encountered in trade. David Atherton
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RIC 1124 Vespasian144 viewsAR Denarius, 3.06g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TITVS ET DOMITIAN CAESARES PRIN IVEN; Titus and Domitian std. l., on curule chairs, with branches
RIC 1124 (R). BMC 393. RSC 544. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This dynastic reverse type was minted at both Rome and Lyon*. Both are rare, with perhaps the the Lugdunese type being the rarest of the two.
* The type has also been attributed to uncertain western mints (See my RIC 1363 var.).David Atherton
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RIC 0535 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]143 viewsAR Quinarius, 1.60g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP P TR P CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 535 (R). BMC 92. RSC 374. BNC 79.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection, acquired from Tom Cederlind. Ex Baldwin's Auction 42, 26 September 2005, lot 288 (part). Ex William C. Boyd Collection, acquired from W.S. Lincoln, February 1896.
This fairly rare Titus as Caesar quinarius from 73 AD is my first quinarius, so I was quite thrilled to receive it.
Not only is the coin rare, but it has an interesting provenance. It came with a tag from the 19th century William C. Boyd (1840-1906) collection. As the tag indicates, he purchased the coin from W.S. Lincoln of Oxford St. in London. Roman history combined with a Victorian era numismatic souvenir, what more can you ask for?
In regards to the denomination itself, I'm not quite sure why quinarii were minted in the imperial era. Were they minted to make up required sums for imperial donatives as A Dictionary of Ancient Roman Coins states, or were they minted as presentation pieces to be given away at special occasions?David Atherton
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RIC 1421 Vespasian142 viewsAR Denarius, 3.02g
Ephesus mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm; at lower l., BY
RIC 1421 (R). BMC 446. RSC 278. RPC 825 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Den of Antiquity, August 2012.
This denarius is part of the fourth series minted at Ephesus. Most of the denarii with the BY mint mark are fairly rare.
A decently toned coin with a good portrait, although flatly struck.David Atherton
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RIC 1492 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]142 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: COS IIII across field; Eagle stg. facing on garlanded base, wings open, head r.
RIC 1492 (R). BMC 487. RSC 45c. RPC 1466 (3 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N. Sneh Collection, group lot 806.
A delightful Domitian as Caesar denarius from the rare 'o' mint. RIC speculates the mysterious mint is Ephesus based on the use of the 'o' mint mark which was also used at that mint in its last known series in 74.
This reverse type of Eagle on garlanded base is known from Rome for Vespasian and Titus. A wonderful portrait accompanies this large flan specimen.
David Atherton
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RIC 1069 Vespasian141 viewsAR Denarius, 2.86g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Victory stg. l., placing shield on trophy; below, captive std. l.
RIC 1069 (R). BMC 248. RSC 553. BNC 216. Hendin 1485a
Struck during Vespasian's final denarius issue of 79 just prior to his death. The reverse design harkens back to similar Judaea Capta themes seen earlier in the reign. It was later recycled on Titus' Divus Vespasian denarii. Rare left facing portrait variant.
David Atherton
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RIC 1105 Vespasian141 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Lyon mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER FORT RED; Fortuna stg. l., r. hand on prow, with cornucopiae
RIC 1105 (R2). BMC p. 76 note. RSC 82. BNC 288.
Ex G&N, eBay, 22 September 2013.
At first glance this denarius would seem to be unremarkable. The Fortuna reverse is a well known common reverse type minted in Rome in 70; however, this example is from Lyon (Lugdunum) and is considerably rarer. It can be distinguished from the Rome mint examples based on style and the obverse legend. Style wise Lyon is known for its large headed portraits and neat, blocky legends. TR P (either I or II) is also recorded in the obverse legend, unlike at Rome. Many Lyon denarius types are copied from those minted in Rome and are sometimes misattributed by less diligent cataloguers.
A good coin with honest wear and a fine styled portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 0937 Vespasian140 viewsAR Denarius, 3.50g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VIII; Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak, fastened with belt(?)round waist, standing l., holding spear slanting upwards l. in r. hand and trophy on l. shoulder in l.
RIC 937 (C2). BMC 200. RSC 125. BNC 177.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, April 2003.
A 'Mars triumphant' type which copies a famous reverse from the republican past struck by L. Valerius Flaccus circa 108 B.C.
David Atherton
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RIC 0966 Vespasian139 viewsAR Denarius, 3.25g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona std. l., with sack of corn ears
RIC 966 (R). BMC 298. RSC 30. BNC 260.
Acquired from Ancient Treasures, April 2008.
The left facing portrait of this type is rated as rare in the RIC. Minted at a ratio of 10:1 to the right facing examples.
A very hard type for me to find. The obverse is a bit off centre, but not distractingly so.David Atherton
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RIC 1233 Vespasian139 viewsÆ As, 9.19g
Lyon mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS VIII P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to r., Judaea std. r.; to l. of tree, arms
RIC 1233 (C). BMC 845. BNC 846. Hendin 1561.
Acquired from Zuzim, October 2018.
The amount of propaganda the Flavian regime was able to squeeze out of the Jewish War is astounding. Here we have an As struck seven or eight years after the fall of Jerusalem still touting the Jewish defeat. It was the singular event that more than anything else gave the dynasty its prestige. It would have been unseemly to celebrate the defeat of fellow Romans after the end of the Civil War, but quite appropriate to do so over an eastern people, despite the fact they were within the boundaries of the Roman empire. This As was struck in a fairly large issue from the Lyon mint, presumably to address a shortage of bronze coinage in the western provinces late in Vespasian's reign.
Distinctive Lyon portrait, struck on a bent flan.David Atherton
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RIC 0545 Vespasian138 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP - AVG CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONTIF MAXIM (r. to l., outwardly); Vespasian, togate, seated r., feet on stool, holding vertical sceptre in r. hand and branch in l.
RIC 545 (C). BMC 98 var. RSC 387a. BNC -.
Acquired from Mike R. Vosper Coins, September 2007.
This is an uncommon obverse legend variant of a very common reverse. Issued in 73 AD, the obverse legend on this coin reads IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN. Normally this type has the obverse legend as IMP CAES VESP AVG CENS.
Not listed in RIC but noted in the BMCRE p. 19.
A very minor variant to be sure, but to a Flavian specialist like myself, this is a wondeful find. The coin itself is a prime example of Early Flavian coinage with some wear.
David Atherton
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RIC 0025 Vespasian138 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Neptune stg. l., foot on prow, with dolphin and trident
RIC 25 (R). BMC 14. RSC 90. BNC - .
Acquired from Nemesis, February 2008.
This coin commemorates Vespasian's return to Rome in October of 70 AD (RIC II p 19). Neptune, as god of the sea, is given his just due in Vespasian's safe voyage home. This coin type was copied by Lugdunum. Antioch also had a variation of the Neptune reverse (with a globe instead of a prow).
Considered rare by the RIC, I had a most difficult time locating this reverse type from Rome. Vespasian looks a bit bemused in this portrait, which I find very appealing.David Atherton
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RIC 1345 Vespasian138 viewsAR Denarius, 3.24g
Uncertain Western Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVGVSTV; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERTAS PVBLICA; Libertas stg. l., with pileus and rod
RIC 1345 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Pecunem 41, 6 March 2016, lot 675.
Many mints were operating during the civil war of 68/69 in the west and it is sometimes difficult to pin down certain issues to a specific mint. This Libertas type with an unusual AVGVSTV ending the obverse legend is one such coin and was totally unknown until recently. The reverse type suggests Spain, as does the portrait style - which is very similar to the gold and bronze issues from Tarraco. However, RIC notes that this variety of the type has no known Spanish provenance, unlike the other Libertas type (see my V1339) attributed to Spain. The coin's theme is a civil war one and most certainly was struck very early in Vespasian's reign.
A beautiful coin in hand with a spectacular portrait.
David Atherton
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RIC 1542 Vespasian137 viewsAR Denarius, 2.81g
Antioch mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VIRTVS AVGVST; Virtus stg. r., l. foot on prow with spear and parazonium
RIC 1542 (R2). BMC 499. RSC 640. RPC 1916 (5 spec.). BNC 315.
Ex G&N, eBay, 2 May 2011.
Minted at Antioch in 70 AD, this early eastern type of Vespasian is one of only two times that i know of that Virtus appears on Flavian denarii, the other type being Vespasian RIC 1379 a unique coin. Virtus here symbolizes the military prowess of the emperor on both land and sea. The type was normally popular during Roman Civil Wars, so it is not at all surprising that Vespasian issued it coming out of one.
The coin is scratched and the flan is ragged and uneven but the high profile portrait remains showing a unique Antiochene style.
David Atherton
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RIC 1440A Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]136 viewsAR Denarius, 2.69g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMPERATOR T CAESAR AVGVSTI E (sic); Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, EPHE
RIC 1440A. BMC 467 var. (rev. legend engraver's error). RSC 39 var. (same). RPC 843 var. (same). BNC 358 var. (same).
Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N Sneh Collection, lot 742. Acquired from Ponterio, c. 2003.
This denarius features an engraver's error in the obverse legend. Instead of ending in the normal F the engraver mistakenly engraved an E. It is also an obverse die match to the unique British Museum aureus RIC V1437. A wonderful example of aurei and denarii sharing dies! The coin has been assigned by Carradice as V1440A (obv 2B) in the upcoming RIC II addenda.
Not only is this coin interesting for the engraver's error and die link - it's also in excellent style with an outstanding portrait. Truly a gorgeous coin.
David Atherton
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RIC 1496 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]136 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS IIII; Winged caduceus
RIC 1496 (R2). BMC 489. RSC 369. RPC 1469 (2 spec.). BNC 377.
Acquired from Britaly Coins, April 2016.
The small series struck under Vespasian this coin comes from is quite mysterious. The mint is not known for certain, although Ephesus is a prime suspect. K. Butcher and M. Ponting in The Metallurgy of Roman silver Coinage analysed the Ephesian and 'o' mint series and their data shows both issues are made from the same bullion. Not definitive proof the two series are from the same mint, but good evidence of a strong link. Unlike the Ephesian series, the 'o' issue is full of blundered legends and mules. This denarius struck for Domitian Caesar has a PON MAX reverse legend, an impossible title for the young prince. However, what the mint masters lacked in competency, the engravers made up for in their stylish portraits.
A wonderful portrait struck on a large flan. An obverse die match with my RIC V1494.David Atherton
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RIC 0532 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]136 viewsAR Quinarius, 1.40g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP P TR P CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 532 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from GB Collection, June 2016.
An extremely rare quinarius struck for Titus Caesar in 73, the year of his joint censorship with Vespasian. What makes this coin notable is the spelling of 'AVGVST' in the reverse legend. The more common quinarii from the issue spell it 'AVGVSTI', although they too are rare. Apparently this is the second known specimen, the other is cited in the new RIC II and is held by the Museo Nazionale Romano in Rome.
For a quinarius, this is in fairly good condition. Well centred with an agreeable portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 0539 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]136 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMITIAN COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; cloak flying out behind, r. hand raised, sceptre in l.
RIC 539 (R). BMC 122. RSC 665. BNC -.
Acquired from NumisCorner, June 2018.
This is the first denarius struck at Rome for Domitian as Caesar. Fittingly, it commemorates Domitian's appearance at Vespasian and Titus' joint Jewish War Triumph - 'while taking part in the Judaean triumph, he rode on a white horse' (Suetonius, Domitian, ii), which was the normal conduct for a young prince on such occasions. The type was struck in three variants: firstly, with a clockwise obverse legend and DOMITIAN fully spelled out, as we see here. Secondly, it was shortened to DOMIT, with the legend still running clockwise. Lastly, the legend direction was changed to counter clockwise with DOMIT. The first two variants are quite rare, the last relatively common. On this coin we see a cloak flying out from behind Domitian. This interesting detail only appears on a few coins from the first variant and does not show up on subsequent issues of the type. Most likely this variant with the cloak was the earliest version of the type which was then quickly simplified by dropping the cloak all together.
Well centred in good early style.David Atherton
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RIC 0238 Vespasian136 viewsÆ Sestertius, 25.68g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: MARS VICTOR; S C in field; Mars, armoured, adv. l., with Victory and trophy
RIC 238 (C). BMC 552. BNC 509.
Ex CNG E443, 1 May 2019, lot 530.
A sestertius struck in Vespasian's great bronze issue of 71. The reverse features the first Mars type coined for the new emperor, copied from one previously struck for Vitellius. Mars is seen here in full military dress instead of the heroic nude he is normally depicted as on the contemporary denarii. This MARS VICTOR type pays proper respect to the god of war for granting Flavian success in the recently concluded Jewish War (an open display of celebration for defeating Vitellius would be taboo on the coinage). The portraits from this aes issue can be quite extraordinary. C.H.V. Sutherland in his book Roman Coins writes: 'Vespasian's aes, however, and not merely the sestertii, developed a full magnificence of portraiture ... The beauty of this work lay in it's realism, strong in authority and yet delicate in execution ...' (p. 189). Perhaps, a portrait such as this is what Sutherland had in mind when he wrote that passage.
The minor porosity does not detract from the superb veristic portrait and beautiful dark brown patina. David Atherton
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RIC 1456 Vespasian135 viewsAR Denarius, 2.35g
Ephesus mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; in exergue, star
RIC 1456 (R). BMC p. 99. RSC 68. RPC 852 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex CNG E263, 31 August 2011, lot 313.
A Ceres type from one of the last regular denarius issues struck at Ephesus. It copies a similar design minted at Rome, distinguished here by an ornate high back chair.
Despite this denarius having a few flaws and a cracked flan, the major devices are intact and the details of the reverse are quite well preserved, especially the cornucopiae and the poppies.
David Atherton
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RIC 1109 Vespasian135 viewsAR Denarius, 3.35g
Lyon mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Neptune stg. l., foot on prow, with dolphin
RIC 1109 (R). BMC 375 note. RSC 93. BNC -.
Ex eBay, October 2013.
A fairly rare Neptune type which is part of an early issue from Lyon (Lugdunum) struck in 70. Rome also minted the same type but the two can be distinguished by style and obverse legend. Style wise Lyon is known for its large headed portraits and neat, blocky legends. TR P (either I or II) is also recorded in the obverse legend, unlike at Rome. The reverse type also has a more ornate prow than Rome. Many Lyon denarius types are copied from those minted in Rome and are sometimes misattributed by less diligent cataloguers.David Atherton
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RIC 0800 Vespasian135 viewsAR Quinarius, 1.34g
Rome mint, 75(?) AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; Victory std. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 800 (C). BMC 285. RSC 594. BNC 252.
Acquired from CGB, May 2016.
Quniarii struck during the Flavian era are exceedingly rare compared to the denarii. Vespasian's largest issue of quinarii are undated and most likely date to 75. The quinarii struck before 75 have AVGVSTI in the reverse legend, while those struck after 75 use the shorter AVGVST. This undated issue employs both forms, therefore it fits neatly to 75. Vespasian employed two traditional Victory types (advancing and seated) for the reverses. Striking this denomination was quite in keeping with the antiquarian flavour of the Rome mint during the reign.
Deeply toned with a decent portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 1418 Vespasian135 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Ephesus mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERI IMP AVG V-ESPAS; Heads of Titus, bare, r., and Domitian, bare, l., confronting; BY in r. field (on its side, obscured)
RIC 1418 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Trusted Coins, eBay, September 2016.
The confronting heads of Titus and Domitian is one of the rarest reverse types struck at Ephesus for Vespasian. RIC lists this rare variant with mintmark sideways in right field as 'unique'. I was able to match my specimen's reverse die with another example (Lanz 128, 22 May 2006, lot 322) which showed the BY mintmark, confirming the coin's attribution. Since the publication of the new RIC, I have identified 4 specimens of this extremely rare variant, all from the same reverse die. Also, take note of the unusual break in the reverse legend: V - ESPAS.
Struck with nearly full legends in fine Ephesian style.David Atherton
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RIC 0873 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian] (2)135 viewsAR Denarius, 3.45g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: COS V across field; Eagle head l. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 873 (R2). BMC p. 36 note. RSC 60. BNC -.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, December 2016.
The common eagle and altar type was struck for both Vespasian and Titus Caesar. Here is a very scarce left facing portrait example of the type. However, what interested me about this coin was the reverse, not the rare obverse. What isn't noted in the references and catalogues is the fact this type comes in two variants - one with eagle clutching a thunderbolt in its talons and the other without thunderbolt. Doug Smith proposes a possible third variant with eagle clutching branches. RIC generically describes the reverse as eagle with 'thunderbolt in claws', so this coin without thunderbolt should be regarded as a variant. I have another example of the type showing the eagle clutching a thunderbolt. The coins with plain altars actually seem to be more common.
Nicely toned and in good style.
Special thanks to Doug Smith.
David Atherton
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RIC 0920 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]135 viewsAR Denarius, 2.96g
Rome mint, 76-77AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS IIII; Minerva stg. r. on prow, with spear and shield; to r., owl
RIC 920 (R). BMC spec. acquired 1947. RSC 45b. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
The first appearance of Minerva on a denarius struck for Domitian as Caesar under Vespasian. His devotion to the goddess came early in life, so it comes as no surprise he wished to honour her on the coins minted in his name. This denarius is a clear indication Domitian had some say in what reverse types were struck for him under Vespasian. The Minerva on prow is an early prototype of one of the four standard Minerva types (M2) Domitian would later extensively strike on his own denarii as Augustus. An extremely rare type for him as Caesar.
A pleasing coin with a Vespasian-like portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 1420 Vespasian134 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Ephesus mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS; Titus and Domitian, togate, veiled, standing l., each holding patera in r. hand, l. hands at sides; in exergue, BY
RIC 1420 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Hirsch 323, 22 September 2016, lot 2390.
An extremely rare Ephesus Group 4 denarius. When the new edition of RIC II was published in 2007 only one specimen was known of this dynastic type with mint mark in exergue. Since its publication, several other examples have come to light in addition to mine, bringing the total number of specimens to around a dozen. RIC makes a distinction between two different mint mark placings for this type: in exergue, as seen here, and between T & D.
Struck in fine style with hints of gunmetal toning. David Atherton
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RIC 0190 Vespasian134 viewsÆ Sestertius, 25.22g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in field; Roma stg. l., with Victory and spear
RIC 190 (C3). BMC 560. BNC 525.
Ex Pegasi 39, 13 November 2018, lot 467. Ex Bonhams, 11 June 2018, group lot 3. Ex Superior 2-3 June 1998, The J. B. Parker Collection, lot 7023.
In 71 AD the Rome and Lugdunum mints struck a massive iconic issue of aes coinage for Vespasian, setting the tone for the bronze coinage for the remainder of the reign. One of the commonest sestertius types struck for the issue was Roma holding Victory. Roma is depicted in the guise of an Amazon warrior, a typical attribute for her on the coinage during the Flavian era.
Fantastic portrait in good style. David Atherton
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RIC 1464 Vespasian133 viewsAR Denarius, 3.49g
Ephesus mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., annulet at tip of bust
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres, std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; below throne, annulet; in exergue, star
RIC 1464 (R2). BMC p. 99, †. RSC 68 var. (annulet below throne). RPC 852 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Savoca, eBay, 2 March 2018.
A rare COS V Ephesian denarius notable for three control marks (one on the obverse, two on the reverse). Certain variants may have all three marks present but with different placements, lack one or two marks, or be any combination of the former and latter possibilities. I would assume the marks had something to do with the internal organisation of the mint's workshops. Also of note, this is the last denarius issue which can inarguably be attributed to Ephesus.
A bit off-centre, but in fine style.
David Atherton
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RIC 1062 Vespasian132 viewsAR Denarius, 3.43g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, right.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Ceres seated left, with corn ears and poppy and torch
RIC 1062 (C). BMC 244. RSC 550. BNC 213.
Acquired from Amphora Coins, January 2008.
A denarius from Vespasian's last issue struck before his death in June 79. The type likely refers to the emperor's careful stewardship of the grain supply.
A nice example of a late period Vespasian denarius. Good portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 1442 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]132 viewsAR Denarius, 3.38g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMPERATOR T CAESAR AVGVSTI F; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PACI - AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm; at lower r., EPHE
RIC 1442 (R). BMC 468. RSC 125. RPC 844 (5 spec.). BNC 361.
Ex CNG E260, 20 July 2011, lot 469. Ex Gorny and Mosch 170, 13 October 2008, lot 2068. Ex Gorny & Mosch 142, 10 October 2005, lot 2392.
The obverse is slightly off center but contains a wonderful portrait. David Atherton
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RIC 0945 Vespasian Mule132 viewsAR Denarius, 3.22g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: COS VI in ex.; Pair of Oxen, under yoke, l.
RIC 945 (R3, this coin). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Celeste Jones Mining, April 2017. Ex CGB Monnaies 21, 18 June 2004, lot 2387. Formerly in NGC holder 4278700-005, grade 'VF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.
A unique mint mule with an obverse of Vespasian combined with a reverse from Titus Caesar's parallel issue. Vespasian was COS VIII when the coin was struck in 77/78, so the reverse title is quite impossible. This specimen is cited in RIC, apparently unique. The combination of a scarce left facing Vespasian portrait with a rare yoked oxen type for Titus Caesar makes it unlikely another specimen will turn up any time soon. The yoked oxen reverse copies a Republican denarius struck by L. Cassius Caecianus, Crawford 321/1. Possibly a 'colonist' or general agricultural type.
In very fine condition and good style.David Atherton
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RIC 0922 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]132 viewsAR Denarius, 3.31g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS IIII; Pegasus, standing r.
RIC 922 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Marc Walter, May 2018. Ex Künker eLive Auction 37, 20 October 2015, lot 152.
A rare obverse legend variant of the Pegasus type struck for Domitian Caesar under Vespasian. Here we have 'CAES' instead of the much more common 'CAESAR'. No reverse die links between the two different obverses have been found, perhaps suggesting the 'CAES' issue came slightly later. Out of 240 Domitian Pegasus denarii on acsearch, only 6 have the 'CAES' obverse. The reverse copies a denarius struck for Augustus (RIC 297). Mattingly speculates it refers to Domitian's poetic aspirations.
Curtis Clay's comments concerning this variant - 'I had forgotten about this variety, but find that I had written into my BMC 193: Var. CAES for CAESAR, CNG Website 6247, May 2001 (2.78g). RIC new ed. 922 calls it R2 and cites examples in Glasgow (ill. pl. 10) and Oxford.'
Struck in the very finest of styles. David Atherton
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RIC 0029 Vespasian (2)132 viewsAR Denarius, 3.28g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Pax, draped, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand and winged caduceus in l.
RIC 29 (C3). BMC 26. RSC 94h. BNC 18.
Acquired from Aegean Numismatics, August 2018.
This seated Pax is by far the most common type of the 'COS ITER' issue. It may even have been struck well after June 70, evidenced by the vast quantities that have survived and the classic Vespasianic portrait many of them display (Vespasian arrived in Rome c. October 70). COS ITER in the reverse legend is sometimes unusually spaced dependent on where Pax's branch is positioned - here the break occurs between the 'T' and 'E'. Most examples do not have such a break.
An early fine style portrait with true Vespasianic features. Unobtrusive flan flaw.David Atherton
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RIC 0942 Vespasian131 viewsAR Denarius, 3.28g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: COS VIII; Prow r: above, eight pointed star
RIC 942 (C). BMC 211. RSC 137. BNC 187.
Acquired from Ancient Treasure, December 2008.
RIC lists this left facing portrait as common, but I think it's slightly rarer than the right facing variety, which is also listed as common. Curtis Clay has informed me that the Reka Devnia hoard records 2 right facing and only 1 left facing portrait.
A bit porous, but with a full legend and decent portrait.David Atherton
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RIC 0846 Vespasian131 viewsAR Denarius, 2.90g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: COS VII across field; Eagle head r. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 846 (R). BMC p. 34 note. RSC 122a. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
A fairly rare denarius with portrait left and the head of the eagle to the right. Variant lacking thunderbolt.
Deep toning combined with an artistic portrait makes this a wonderful coin with plenty of in hand eye appeal.
David Atherton
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RIC 1469 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]131 viewsAR Denarius, 2.74g
Ephesus mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP T CAESAR COS III; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r., annulet at tip of bust
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres std. l., on ornate high-backed chair, with corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae; below throne, annulet; in exergue, star
RIC 1469 (R2). BMC 477. RSC -. RPC 856 var. (obv. legend lacks annulet). BNC -.
Ex Gemini IX, 8 January 2012, Harry N. Sneh Collection, lot 429
The annulet before the obverse bust is an important distinction, it may signify a new series for Ephesus. For now it is cataloged with Ephesus group 9. The annulet is barely visible in hand.
In wonderful condition with a pleasing style. There seems to be no end to the high quality output from this mint!David Atherton
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RIC 1412A Vespasian131 viewsAR Denarius, 3.07g
Ephesus mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm; at lower r., horizontal Φ
RIC 1412A (R3), BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Munthandel G Henzen, February 2017.
A previously unknown type for Vespasian's Ephesian denarii dated COS II (group 3). Before this specimen surfaced the Victory advancing right type was only known for COS III (group 5) and later issues at Ephesus. Normally for COS II Victory is advancing left, so, this is the earliest example of the Victory advancing right. The mint mark is a bit obscured, but under examination with a loupe I believe it to be Φ. I alerted Ted Buttrey about the coin and he has assigned it as RIC 1412A in the upcoming RIC II Addenda.
Good Ephesian style and large flan. Better in hand.David Atherton
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RIC 0948 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]130 viewsAR Denarius, 2.87g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VI; Mars stg. l., with spear and trophy
RIC 948 (C). BMC 221. RSC 65. BNC 195.
Ex eBay, March 2008.
Another reverse of Titus' which copies a Vespasian reverse. Both father and son shared the same types, one would think it was to strengthen the fact that Titus was the joint ruler and heir. Domitian on the other hand rarely shared the same types as Vespasian or Titus, highlighting his junior status.
An excellent denarius with a good portrait. Nice metal too.David Atherton
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RIC 1455 Vespasian130 viewsAR Denarius, 2.86g
Ephesus mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and star in oak wreath
RIC 1455 (R2). BMC p. 99 note. RSC 39, RPC 851 (1 spec.). BNC 367.
Acquired from Pars Coins, October 2009.
A rare type to be sure, but it was the portrait that caught my eye. A beautiful example of what Ephesus seemed to produce almost effortlessly.
NB: The type is supposed to have a star within the wreath, I can't see one. Perhaps it has worn completely away?
David Atherton
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RIC 1076 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]129 viewsAR Denarius, 2.89g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT VIII COS VII; Trophy, below, captive kneeling r.
RIC 1076(C). BMC 258. RSC 334. BNC 229.
Ex eBay, February 2009.
Variously this reverse has been attributed to an Agricola victory in Britain or a 'Judaea Capta' type. It seems more likely to be a 'Judaea Capta' type because Titus does not share the type with Vespasian. One would think a British victory would have been celebrated on both coinages. It seems more likely to be a type that reminds the Roman populace of the young Prince's role in the Jewish War nine years before.
A very decent example of the type with a better than average portrait.
David Atherton
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RIC 0514 Vespasian129 viewsAR Denarius, 3.32g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S P Q R in oak wreath
RIC 514 (C). BMC 101. RSC 516. BNC 88.
Acquired from Sergey Nechayev, September 2010.
The reverse depicts an oak wreath that was bestowed upon Vespasian by the 'senate and the people of Rome'. The occasion for such an offering is not known, although the BMCRE speculates (p. xxxvi) it could have been the 'Vota quinquennalia' which was paid the same year.
Good metal with an above average portrait.
David Atherton
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RIC 0528A Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]129 viewsAR Denarius, 3.36g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: NEP RED; Neptune stg. l., r. foot on globe, with acrostolium and sceptre
RIC 528A. BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N. Sneh Collection, lot 637. Ex Gorny & Mosch 122, 10 March 2003, lot 2043 = 113, 18 October 2001, lot 5729.
An unpublished Neptune type with CENS in the obverse legend. The coin will be 528A (under Vespasian) in the RIC II Addenda. It fits nicely alongside my unpublished V529A Salus from the same series. I think there are still a few other unknown types that will surface for this series - this Neptune reverse for the corresponding Vespasian issue is one that so far is awaiting discovery.
A beautiful denarius in hand with an amazing early portrait. The other two denarii I have from this series also have exemplary portraits. An issue style wise to take note of then.David Atherton
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RIC 1465 Vespasian129 viewsAR Denarius, 3.02g
Ephesus mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm; at lower l., annulet, at lower r., star
RIC 1465 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Ancient Treasures, eBay, 26 July 2015.
The various mint marks found on the denarii struck for the Flavians at Ephesus are somewhat mysterious in purpose and meaning. There is no blatant reason why they are present in the issue. This denarius struck for Vespasian in 74 towards the end of the series has not one, but two mint marks on the reverse, an annulet and star. Perhaps they were internal mint control marks?
A victorious peace bestowed by the emperor is advertised on the reverse, while a severe looking Vespasian on the obverse demands you love and accept that peace, or else. David Atherton
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RIC 0715 Vespasian129 viewsÆ Dupondius, 10.55g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M T P COS V CENS; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.
Rev: FELICITAS PVBLICA; S C in field; Felicitas stg. l., with caduceus and cornucopiae
RIC 715 (C2). BMC 696. BNC 712.
Acquired from Aegean Numismatics, August 2018.
A decently sized bronze coinage was struck for Vespasian in 74. The Felicitas on the reverse symbolises the prosperity and abundance Vespasian has brought to the empire. It is easily one of the commonest reverse types of the issue.
Well centred with a few marks on the reverse.
David Atherton
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