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RIC 442 Germanicus, Restored by TitusÆ As, 10.16g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: GERMANICVS CAESAR TI AVG F DIVI AVG N; Head of Germanicus, bare, l.
Rev: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG REST; S C in centre
RIC 442 (C). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Herakles, March 2021.

Titus struck an extensive restoration series of bronze coins of Flavian approved past emperors and imperial family members which reproduced the original coins in their entirety. While this veneration of past coinages was not a new idea (Vespasian copied past types on many reverses for the precious metal issues) it was quite an innovation to copy both the obverse and reverse of these past coinages. To do so likely had a dual purpose - one, to recoin types that were being recalled or falling out of circulation and to keep their memory alive, and secondly to link the Flavian house with those past revered personages. The meaning is quite clear on the reverse with Titus declaring he has restored (RESTITVIT) the coin.

Germanicus Julius Caesar (24 May 15 BC – 10 October 19 AD) was an immensely beloved member of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Son of Nero Claudius Drusus and Antonia the Younger, grandson to the emperor Augustus, nephew to the emperor Tiberius, and brother to the emperor Claudius. He was a very successful general in Germania and celebrated a triumph for those campaigns. He later died in Syria of unknown causes (although, it is rumoured the 'Tiberius friendly' Senator Piso had him poisoned). Apparently, he was still a beloved figure during the Flavian era.4 commentsDavid Atherton03/11/21 at 15:23Parthicus Maximus: Very nice!

RIC 161 TitusÆ Sestertius, 28.24g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PROVIDENT AVGVST; S C in exergue; Vespasian and Titus, both togate, stg. r. and l., together holding globe over rudder
RIC 161 (R). BMC 181. BNC 171.
Ex Teutoburger Auction 132/133, 1-5 December 2020, lot 459 .

An iconic dynastic type struck during Titus' fairly large bronze issue of 80-81. Mattingly in BMCRE II succinctly sums up the reverse: "A type of 'Providentia Augusti' shows Vespasian, now a god, handing over to Titus the 'regimen orbis', symbolized by a globe over a rudder. 'Providentia' is the virtue of wise foresight, which leads an Emperor to make the succession sure." This bit of imperial propaganda must have been extremely important to the new regime based on the commonness of the type. It was very important for Titus as the new princeps to show continuity with his father's policies. The powerful symbolism of Vespasian handing over 'the rudder of the world' to Titus is a brilliant piece of visual storytelling. This right facing portrait is slightly rarer than the left facing variant.
4 commentsDavid Atherton03/06/21 at 14:44mix_val: That is a heavy bronze!

RIC 162 TitusÆ Sestertius, 23.74g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: PROVIDENT AVGVST; S C in exergue; Vespasian and Titus, both togate, stg. r. and l., together holding globe over rudder
RIC 162 (C). BMC 178. BNC 169.
Acquired from CGB.fr, February 2021.

A dynastic type struck during Titus' fairly large bronze issue of 80-81. Mattingly in BMCRE II succinctly sums up the reverse: "A type of 'Providentia Augusti' shows Vespasian, now a god, handing over to Titus the 'regimen orbis', symbolized by a globe over a rudder. 'Providentia' is the virtue of wise foresight, which leads an Emperor to make the succession sure." This bit of imperial propaganda must have been extremely important to the new regime based on the commonness of the type. 2 commentsDavid Atherton03/03/21 at 04:59Parthicus Maximus: Interesting type!

RIC 162 TitusÆ Sestertius, 23.74g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: PROVIDENT AVGVST; S C in exergue; Vespasian and Titus, both togate, stg. r. and l., together holding globe over rudder
RIC 162 (C). BMC 178. BNC 169.
Acquired from CGB.fr, February 2021.

A dynastic type struck during Titus' fairly large bronze issue of 80-81. Mattingly in BMCRE II succinctly sums up the reverse: "A type of 'Providentia Augusti' shows Vespasian, now a god, handing over to Titus the 'regimen orbis', symbolized by a globe over a rudder. 'Providentia' is the virtue of wise foresight, which leads an Emperor to make the succession sure." This bit of imperial propaganda must have been extremely important to the new regime based on the commonness of the type. 2 commentsDavid Atherton02/25/21 at 12:27Jay GT4: Even though (C) not one you see often

RIC 509 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 24.47g
Eastern mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Mars, with cloak over shoulders, adv. r., with spear and trophy
RIC 509 (R2). BMC p. 296 *. RPC 505. BNC 326.
Acquired from Aegean, January 2021.

An unidentified Eastern mint struck coins for Titus and Domitian as Caesar sometime between 80-81 AD. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, massive reverse figures), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. This very rare sestertius produced for Domitian as Caesar copies the more commonly found Mars type contemporaneously struck for Titus at this mint. Missing from the BM's extensive collection.1 commentsDavid Atherton02/13/21 at 02:54Jay GT4: Nice green patina on a rare type

RIC 507 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 24.78g
Eastern mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 507 (R). BMC p. 295 note. BNC -. RPC 504.
Acquired from Akropolis Ancient Coins, November 2020.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus and Domitian as Caesar sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, massive reverse figures), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. This rare sestertius struck for Domitian as Caesar copies the Pax type struck contemporaneously for him at Rome. It can be distinguished from that issue by style and fabric. This variety with obverse DOMITIANVS is missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Dark Chocolate patina and fine 'Thracian' style.2 commentsDavid Atherton02/11/21 at 19:35ancientdave: Very cool

RIC 255 TitusÆ Quadrans, 2.52g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T VESP AVG COS VIII; Modius
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 255 (C). BMC 220. BNC 227.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, January 2021.

A small issue of quadrantes dated COS VIII were struck for Titus sometime in 80 or 81. The modius/ S C laurel wreath type copies the famous quadrans struck under Claudius. Although the frequency rating in RIC is 'common', this denomination for Titus is fairly uncommon.

Well centred with full legend.2 commentsDavid Atherton01/21/21 at 13:31quadrans: Another nice piece Laughing

RIC 137 TitusÆ Sestertius, 23.56g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona stg. l., with statuette of Aequitas and cornucopiae; to l., modius with corn ears; to r., stern of ship
RIC 137 (C2). BMC 153. BNC 152.
Acquired from Dr. Busso Peus Nachf., September 2019.

Ensuring that the urban plebs were well fed was an important responsibility of the emperor. The reliability of the imperial grain supply from Africa was crucial. This sestertius struck in 80-81 by Titus advertises his commitment, through the auspices of Annona, to fairly provide enough bread for the dole. Annona holding a figure of Aequitas, while standing next to a modius full of corn, and with a docked grain ship in the background was explicitly powerful propaganda. The government provided a dole of free grain to around 200, 000 citizens in the city. Every pleb had little doubt who to thank for their daily bread and coins like this are one of the reasons why. This fairly common sestertius was struck during Titus’ great issue of bronze in 80-81. Oddly, the reverse lacks the Senatus Consulto decree seen on most of his imperial bronze. Perhaps Titus wanted full credit?

A fabulous portrait in fine style.4 commentsDavid Atherton07/04/20 at 04:45ancientdave: Wow!!

RIC 212 TitusÆ Dupondius, 11.40g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: VESTA in exergue; S C in field; Vesta std. l., with palladium and sceptre
RIC 212 (C). BMC 200. BNC 203.
Ex eBay, 9 February 2020.

It's not unusual at the start of a reign for the Rome mint to strike coin types that conjure up feelings of familiarity and continuance. Vesta is certainly one of those types and Titus' moneyers made full use of her propaganda value. She frequently appears on the bronze coinage with her message of religious piety and security. Her main attribute here is the palladium - a wooden cult image of Pallas Athena which oversees the safety and well being of Rome.

Great style and good metal.5 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 21:13ancientdave: A gem!

RIC 230 TitusÆ As, 12.12g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and caduceus
RIC 230 (C). BMC 212. BNC 219.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, November 2019.

A common carry-over Pax type from Vespasian's reign. She is seen here with an olive branch and Felicitas' caduceus. The perennial propaganda value of advertising and taking credit for peace on the coinage cannot be underestimated.

A fine style left facing portrait.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 19:03ancientdave: Such a nice portrait!

RIC 204 TitusÆ Dupondius, 11.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, l.
Rev: SALVS AVG; S C in exergue; Salus std. l., with patera
RIC 204 (C). BMC 197. BNC 198.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, November 2019. Ex Wendt Auction XIII, 9 November 1976, lot 973.

Titus' bronze issue dated COS VIII is quite large due to the fact he did not renew the consulship in 81 and the coins most likely spanned both years. With that in mind, the meaning behind this Salus type is quite intriguing. Titus died on 13 September 81 and there is some circumstantial evidence hinting that the illness was prolonged, perhaps evident as early as June of that year. Dio and Suetonius report that he wept openly in front of the crowds at the games, perhaps due to deteriorating health. Did the mint master have time enough before Titus' death to strike a coin reverse featuring the goddess of health and well-being in the hopes of divine aid? Conversely, H. Mattingly speculates the Salus reverse commemorates an altar to the goddess dedicated by Titus. Perhaps that may be so. It is not a rare coin, indicating it was struck for a longer rather than shorter period of time.

Dark chocolate patina and good style.5 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/20 at 18:49ancientdave: Great addition!

RIC 500 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.04g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IVD CAP; S C in field; Palm tree; to l., Judaea std. l. on arms; to r., captive stg. r.
RIC 500 (R2). BMC p. 433 note. BNC -. RPC 503 (1 spec.). Hendin 1596.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, May 2020.

The Jewish War was a gift that kept on giving for the Flavian dynasty. This rare Judaea Capta sestertius was struck a decade after the fall of Jerusalem for Titus as Augustus. The new emperor wished to remind the Roman populace of his military bona fides. The coin is from of a very mysterious issue of bronze struck in 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue, which in the main copied types from Rome. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign.

This later variant of the type differs from those stuck under Vespasian by the shortened reverse legend and the presence of a yoke(?) to the right of the standing captive.

Worn, but the major devices are intact. An honest piece.2 commentsDavid Atherton05/30/20 at 06:06quadrans: Wow 👍

RIC 227 TitusÆ As, 10.39g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: GENIO P R; S C in field; Genius stg. l., with patera over altar and cornucopiae
RIC 227 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Romae Aeternae Numismatics, May 2020.

A variant of the Genius reverse with a rare right facing portrait, most of these are seen facing left. GENIO P R - 'The spirit of the Roman people' is not a common motif in Flavian coinage, although ten years previously it was a popular type during the Civil War. H. Mattingly connects the type under Titus with 'the vows undertaken for the first five years of the new reign'. The coin is dated COS VIII which Titus held in 80 (he did not renew the consulship in 81). Missing from the extensive BM and Paris collections.

Fetching dark green patina and decent style.3 commentsDavid Atherton05/22/20 at 14:05FlaviusDomitianus: Nice rarity

RIC 170 TitusÆ Sestertius, 23.63g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 170 (C2). BMC 183. BNC 174.
Acquired from Ampex, eBay, May 2020.

Spes was a common reverse type under Vespasian, connected to future dynastic hope and harmony. It continued to be struck by Titus and can be viewed as his hope for the future with his chosen heir Domitian. As Mattingly put it: '...the recurring types of Spes suggests that Titus gave Domitian full due as heir to the throne.' The left facing portrait variants of the type tend to be in a somewhat finer style than those facing right, likely the handiwork of one talented engraver who preferred lefties. Unlike with Titus' denarii, left portraits in bronze are quite common.

Honest wear in fine style.1 commentsDavid Atherton05/16/20 at 04:05Jay GT4: Wonderful portrait

RIC 229 TitusÆ As, 10.28g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and caduceus
RIC 229 (C). BMC specimen acquired 1968. BNC 218.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, March 2020.

A common carry-over Pax type from Vespasian's reign. She is seen here with an olive branch and Felicitas' caduceus, likely based on a cult image. There were several versions of the Pax type struck in this fairly large bronze issue - the variant with branch and caduceus being the most common. This issue with Titus as COS VIII dates to 80-81. It cannot be narrowed down to one year or the other because Titus did not resume the consulship in 81. The most logical conclusion is that the coins from this substantial issue spans both years, which would account for its unusually large size.

In good condition with a fine olive green patina.2 commentsDavid Atherton04/11/20 at 13:40Vincent: Nice write-up and beautiful goddess

RIC 238 TitusÆ As, 10.71g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, 1.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 238 (C). BMC 214. BNC 221.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, March 2020.

Spes was a fairly common reverse type under Vespasian, connected to future dynastic hope and harmony. It continued to be struck by Titus and can be viewed as his hope for the future with his chosen heir Domitian. As Mattingly put it: '...the recurring types of Spes suggests that Titus gave Domitian full due as heir to the throne.'

Nice dark olive green patina.3 commentsDavid Atherton04/11/20 at 13:39Vincent: Splendid looking coin!

RIC 142 TitusÆ Sestertius, 27.89g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: FELICIT AVGVST; S C in field; Felicitas stg. l., with sceptre and cornucopiae
RIC 142 (C). BMC 157. BNC -.
Acquired from Holding History, eBay, March 2020. Ex Stephen Album, Auction 35, 12-14 September 2019, lot 532. Formerly in NGC holder #5768192-010, with grade VF, strike 4/5, surface 2/5.

In the late spring or early summer of 80 AD Rome suffered a disastrous fire and soon afterwards a devastating plague (perhaps typhus or smallpox). Suetonius tells us that the pestilence was 'unprecedented' and Eusebius claims 10,000 perished. Felicitas, the personification of happiness and prosperity, was greatly needed by both the emperor Titus and the Roman people. This coin struck sometime in 80 or 81 (Titus did not renew the consulship in 81) advertises her blessings through the emperor. This was a fairly popular type during the reign and likely was struck to ease any public anxiety over the recent tragedies. Despite being common, it is missing from the extensive Paris collection.

The left facing portraits struck in this bronze issue tend to be in a slightly finer style than the right facing ones. Perhaps there was one gifted engraver who preferred his portraits facing left?
2 commentsDavid Atherton04/03/20 at 13:52Jay GT4: Gotta love the left facing portraits

RIC 333 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Dupondius/As, 9.38g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l., with corn ears and torch
RIC 333 (R). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Aegean Numismatics, December 2019.

The dupondii struck for Domitian Caesar under Vespasian and Titus have portraits that lack the radiate crown normally associated with that denomination. At times it can be a bit confusing determining if a coin is a dupondius or an As. The new RIC authors firmly assume all the bronze Ceres types struck for Domitian Caesar under Vespasian and Titus are dupondii and are catalogued as such. This bronze Ceres struck under Titus defies that neat categorisation. The low weight and coppery metal suggests this is actually an As not a dupondius! Confusingly, it is struck on a dupondius sized flan. Regardless, one would assume the average Roman on the street would have treated this coin as an As.

Fine style struck on a large flan.
1 commentsDavid Atherton12/29/19 at 04:46Jay GT4: I knew you'd get this one Laughing

RIC 237 TitusÆ As, 11.25g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
RIC 237 (C). BMC 216. BNC 220.
Acquired from ANE, November 2019.

Spes was a fairly common reverse type under Vespasian, connected to future dynastic hope and harmony. It continued to be struck by Titus and can be viewed as his hope for the future with his chosen heir Domitian. As Mattingly put it: '...the recurring types of Spes suggests that Titus gave Domitian full due as heir to the throne.' Suetonius would have us believe this public fraternal affection was a sham and Domitian did everything he could to plot against Titus. The Flavian historian Brian Jones speculates the brother's relationship was one of 'mutual indifference and ignorance' due to their age and personality differences. Regardless, as the numismatic evidence shows, Titus looked upon Domitian as his legitimate heir until his untimely natural death in mid September 81.

Struck with a somewhat worn reverse die, otherwise in good style.6 commentsDavid Atherton12/13/19 at 20:17quadrans: Nice one

RIC 259 Divus Vespasian [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 25.01g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: DIVO AVG VESPAS above; S P Q R in exergue; Deified Vespasian std. r. holding sceptre and Victory in car drawn by four elephants with riders
Rev: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; S C, large, in centre
RIC 259 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Wallin Mynt, November 2019.

The coinage struck by Titus commemorating Divus Vespasian is closely modelled on those struck for Divus Augustus by Tiberius. The obverse of this coin shows a cult image of the defied Vespasian seated on a car drawn by four elephants, mounted by their riders (mahouts?). Presumably, this spectacular display was part of Vespasian's funerary pompa (would such a car drawn by elephants be realistically feasible?). The carnavalesque atmosphere of a Roman imperial funeral procession is readily apparent by this coin's obverse design. The reverse legend date with Titus as COS VIII places the coin between 80-81, at least a full six months after Vespasian's death on 24 June 79 (assuming the coins were produced contemporaneously with Vespasian's deification). Epigraphic evidence shows Vespasian had been deified sometime before 29 May 80. Why they were struck so late remains a mystery. Perhaps the delay for deification was an attempt on Titus' part to avoid his father becoming a court joke as Claudius had become, or so B. Levick has asserted. She believes the famous 'Woe's me ...' quip attributed to Vespasian is likely a later cruel jest parodying Claudius' last utterance 'Woe's me, I think I've messed myself'. Regardless, the political expediency of having a deified father likely overruled any such qualms. All of the sestertii of the Divus Vespasian series are rare - this particular specimen showcases a rare variant obverse legend (VESPAS instead of the slightly commoner VESP) and the reverse legend starting from the lower left.

Fine details with a slightly grainy surface.6 commentsDavid Atherton11/24/19 at 20:40quadrans: wow, great coin, Shocked

RIC 070 TitusÆ As, 8.70g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., leaning on column, with caduceus and branch
RIC 70 (R2). BMC p. 253 note. BNC -.
Acquired from Münzen & Medaillen, September 2019.

Titus' first issues of bronze as Augustus struck in 79, dated COS VII, are all very rare. They were produced sometime during the last six months of the year after his rise to the purple at the end of June, presumably in very modest numbers based on the meagre specimens that have survived antiquity. This As from that scanty issue features the familiar Pax and column type, likely based on a familiar cult image of the deity. Pax is holding a caduceus, an allusion to the peaceful prosperity credited to the emperor. Missing from both the London and Paris collections.

Worn, but with a beautiful olive green patina and bold legends.1 commentsDavid Atherton09/27/19 at 18:27FlaviusDomitianus: Nice find. Obverse die could be the same as my exa...

RIC 248 TitusÆ As, 10.39g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; S C in field; Victory stg. r. on prow, with wreath and palm
RIC 248 (C). BMC 217. BNC 222.
Acquired from eBay, September 2019.

A fairly common As struck in Titus' large second issue of bronze in 80-81. Because Titus did not take up the consulship in 81, the issue cannot be dated more precisely. The Victory on prow is a carry-over type from the coinage of Vespasian, who in turn borrowed it from the coinage of Augustus. It is a fairly popular generic design symbolising the emperor's military successes. The prow lends it a nautical theme, perhaps alluding to a successful ongoing Flavian naval policy.

Very attractively toned with a pleasing portrait.
2 commentsDavid Atherton09/14/19 at 12:25Jay GT4: Attractive portrait with pleasing tone

RIC 016A TitusAR Denarius, 2.83g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona std. l., with sack of corn ears
RIC 16A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Roma Numismatics E-Sale 58, 20 June 2019, lot 1078.

A unique First issue Annona paired with a Second issue obverse legend. The Annona reverse was a carry-over type struck for Titus as Caesar under Vespasian just before his death and was likely issued in the first few days of Titus' reign as a stop-gap until new reverse designs could be created. It is by far the rarest type from the First issue. The obverse legend changed in the second issue from the First issue's IMP T CAESAR to IMP TITVS CAES, this would be the standard obverse legend on the denarii for the remainder of the reign. The appearance of the Annona type with the new obverse legend is possibly a mule using an old First issue reverse die with a new Second issue obverse. There is a slight possibility that it was an intentional strike, but the fact that no other Second issue Annona specimens have surfaced is a strong indication it is accidental.

I informed Ian Carradice of the piece and he has assigned it RIC 16A in the upcoming RIC II.1 Addenda with the note: 'Perhaps a mule, with rev die from the previous issue'.

Good Roman style. 6 commentsDavid Atherton07/16/19 at 22:30Nemonater: Awesome addition!

RIC 006 TitusAR Denarius, 2.80g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P VIIII IMP XIIII COS VII; Ceres std. l., with corn ears and poppy and torch
RIC 6 (R2). BMC p. 432. RSC 270a. BNC 1.
Acquired from Marc Walter, eBay, 25 August 2012.

Minted in 79 AD after 1 July, this is an early denarius, indicated by the absence of P P (Pater Patriae) in the reverse legend. The Ceres reverse is a carry-over type struck by Vespasian in 79 before his death and adopted by Titus after he donned the purple. A variety that is quite rare and hard to come by in trade. A reverse die match with the RIC plate coin.7 commentsDavid Atherton07/14/19 at 01:30Jay GT4: Great rarity

RIC 498 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.38g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVST; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 498 (C). BMC 309. RPC 501. BNC 323.
Acquired from Munthandel G. Henzen, June 2019.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. This sestertius with its massive portrait and large reverse figure is quite typical for this elusive mint. The reverse copies a common Pax type struck contemporaneously at Rome.

Good style with dark brown patina.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/13/19 at 22:20Jay GT4: Nice big coin!

RIC 220 TitusÆ As, 9.10g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: AETERNIT AVGVST; S C in field; Aeternitas stg. r., l. foot on globe, with sceptre and cornucopiae
RIC 220 (R). BMC p. 266 note. BNC 212.
Acquired from eBay, June 2019.

Aeternitas, the personification of eternity, as a coin type was first introduced during the reign of Vespasian and would be periodically struck until the 4th century. This As featuring Aeternitas was struck during Titus' second and largest bronze issue in 80-81. Mattingly in BMCRE II speculates the type here refers to the consecration of Vespasian - 'Aeternitas holds sceptre and cornucopiae, the attributes of majesty and prosperity, while the globe under her foot shows that the application is world-wide. Stress is laid more on the great future than on the great past of the Flavian line.' A most fitting interpretation for a coin that declares 'The eternity of the Augustus'.

Honest wear with greenish-brown patina.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/13/19 at 07:34quadrans: Nice one

RIC 294 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Sestertius, 24.01g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield
RIC 294 (C). BMC 231. BNC 238.
Acquired from Olding, MA Shops, May 2019 = Olding, List 96, March 2019, Sammlung Fritz Reusing, no. 177. From the collection of Fritz Reusing (1874-1956), inherited and continued by Reusing's nephew Paul Schürer (1890-1976).

An exquisite sestertius struck for Domitian as Caesar under Titus featuring his patron deity Minerva. DIVI AVG VESP F tells us the coin was struck after Vespasian's deification. The date of Vespasian's consecratio is dated by the epigraphic evidence sometime between 8 September 79 and 29 May 80. Nathan T. Elkins has proposed that the opening games of the Colosseum were in honour of Vespasian's deification. If so, this sestertius could not have been struck much earlier than June 80. The Minerva reverse was one of the more common types struck during this second bronze issue for Domitian Caesar under Titus.

Although fine portraits can occasionally be seen in silver, it is on the larger canvas of the bronze where the full flower of Roman imperial portraiture can be seen. This sestertius has one of the finest portraits of Domitian I've come across. A superb example of the imperial engraver's art. 6 commentsDavid Atherton06/25/19 at 17:13mix_val: Handsome portrait

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/30/19 at 15:55Gary W2: Just beautiful David and I agree about the portrai...

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/30/19 at 12:57*Alex: Superb portrait, and I like the reverse too. Great...

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/25/19 at 07:21Ancient Aussie: Absolutely fantastic coin David.

RIC 215 TitusÆ As, 9.73g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: AEQVITAS AVGVST; S C in field; Aequitas stg. l., with scales and rod
RIC 215 (C). BMC 204. BNC 207.
Ex eBay, 10 May 2019.

Titus produced a sizeable bronze issue in 80-81. He did not renew the consulship in 81, so it is difficult to pin down a precise date. Owing to the issue's large size it is likely many of the coins did indeed spill over into 81. Here we see a common Aequitas type from that large issue which was originally struck under Vespasian, who in turn copied it from Galba. Aequitas likely represents fairness in issuing out the corn dole.

Honest wear with a dark olive green patina.5 commentsDavid Atherton05/23/19 at 04:41Randygeki(h2): Very nice!

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/06/19 at 20:57Tracy Aiello: Very nice. Great write-up.

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/06/19 at 01:40Britanikus: Nice ! this style is common for coins found in Bul...

RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.10 commentsDavid Atherton05/05/19 at 22:46Nemonater: That's an awesome coin, what a portrait!

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