| Most viewed - 1. The Reign of Vespasian - Imperial Coins |
RIC 0002 Vespasian573 viewsAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA in exergue; Judaea std. r., head resting on hand, to r. of trophy
RIC 2 (C2). BMC 35. RSC 226. BNC 23. Hendin 1479.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, October 2003.
A reverse which commemorates the Roman victory over the Jews in the Jewish war of 66-70 AD. Here is what H. Mattingly in BMCRE II stated about the reverse: 'The veil over her head, the head sunk over her hand, her whole posture express utter dejection.' The reverse effectively captures the essence of a defeated foe and remains one of the most important historical types of the Flavian dynasty. Although listed in RIC as Vespasian's first denarius type, this reverse could not have been struck much before August 70 when Jerusalem fell to Titus Caesar and Judaea was truly 'Capta'. Although a very common type, these command premium prices in trade.
A coin that has a wonderful 'soldier-like' portrait and very detailed reverse. Very well centred for the type, most of which were struck on small flans.David Atherton
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RIC 0016 Vespasian526 viewsAR Denarius, 3.04g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CAESAR AVG F COS CAESAR AVG F PR; Bare heads of Titus on l. and Domitian on r., facing one another
RIC 16 (R). BMC 2. RSC 5. BNC 1.
Acquired from Ephesus Numismatics, November 2005.
This denarius was issued during the first year of Vespasian's reign to announce the beginning of a new dynasty. The titles of both Titus and Domitian as Caesars are proclaimed on the reverse. Titus: CAESAR AVG F COS = 'Caesar, son of the the Augustus and consul'. Domitian: CAESAR AVG F PR = 'Caesar, son of the Augustus and praetor'. After the chaos of the Civil War, Rome badly needed stability and Vespasian and his family would provide it. Along with Judaea Capta, dynastic continuity is a major theme of the early coinage.
David Atherton
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RIC 0366 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]508 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT; Titus, bearded, laureate, r.
Rev: NEP RED; Neptune stg l., r. foot on globe, with acrostolium and sceptre
RIC 366 (C). BMC 80. RSC 121. BNC 68.
Acquired from Tom Cederlind, February 2008.
A reverse type that commemorates Titus's return to Rome after his completion of the Jewish War. Neptune, the god of the sea, would be an appropriate deity to offer thanks to after a safe sea voyage.
This coin is rated as common in RIC, but it's not often seen in trade. David Atherton
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RIC 0541 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]388 viewsAR Denarius, 3.46g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l.
RIC 541 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N. Sneh Collection, lot 701. = Helios, ebay, 29 November 2010 (A. Lynn Collection).
This is an extremely rare denarius of Domitian as Caesar, the second earliest minted at Rome. Here the legend is clockwise, the much more common Domitian on horseback type has the legend anticlockwise. The reverse may allude to Domitian's participation in Vespasian and Titus' joint triumph where he rode a 'magnificent' steed. The obverse is a die match with the RIC plate coin from Oxford. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections.
The early portrait on this one is quite outstanding.
David Atherton
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RIC 0029 Vespasian (1)343 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
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 Hail Cesare, eBay, August 2004.
The seated Pax was likely struck in such vast numbers so early in Vespasian's reign as a propaganda type to help heal the many wounds after a devastating Civil War and the rebellions in Batavia and Judaea. The restoration of the Roman World was a major theme of the fledgling Flavian dynasty. The coinage announced 'all would be well'.
A pleasing coin of a common type.David Atherton
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RIC 0362 Vespasian336 viewsAR Denarius, 3.42g
Rome Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP A-VG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; Victory, draped, advancing r., holding palm over l. shoulder in l. hand and with r. about to place wreath on a standard set in ground on r.
RIC 362 (C2). BMC 74. RSC 618. BNC 60.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, July 2004.
A coin which is considered by some as part of Vespasian's IVDAEA CAPTA series. Here Victory is placing a wreath on a military standard, 'Victory crowning the successful arms of Rome'. The type can be better interpreted as a general 'Victory' type.
One of my favorite coins.David Atherton
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RIC 1058 Vespasian330 viewsAR Denarius, 3.21g
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 1058 (C). BMC 251. RSC 554. BNC 219.
Ex Harlan J. Berk BBS 138, 1 June 2004, lot 224.
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.
The globe under the Capricorn is normally cross-hatched. Rare and unusual with curving latitudinal lines.David Atherton
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RIC 0983 Vespasian330 viewsAR Denarius, 3.14g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR - VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: IMP XIX in ex.; Sow l., with three young
RIC 983 (C). BMC 214. RSC 214. BNC 189.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, February 2005.
A 'rustic idyll' reverse that is part of an agrarian themed issue of types struck in 77-78. Peace and prosperity was the dominant theme here. One (far-fetched?) theory puts forward the idea that the sow and piglets represents the X legion based in Judaea because the pig was their legionary symbol. I believe this is stretching a connection too much.
Artistically rendered and very pleasing to the eye with nice toning.David Atherton
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RIC 0688 Vespasian314 viewsAR Denarius, 2.84g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR in exergue; Vespasian stg. r., with branch and sceptre, in quadriga r.
Rev: VESP AVG across field; Victory on prow r., with wreath and palm
RIC 688 (R). BMC 147. RSC 569. BNC 121. Hendin 1484 corr. (rev. legend).
Ex Nomos Obolos 4, 21 February 2016, lot 575. Ex GH Collection. Ex Superior Galleries, The Moreira sale, Part II, 10-11 December 1988, lot 2374.
A major feature of Vespasian's coinage is in its use of antiquarian styled types and recycled ones from previous eras. K. Butcher and M. Ponting in The Metallurgy of Roman Silver Coinage have shown that a big component of Vespasian's silver bullion consisted of recycled denarii from the republic and early empire. Vespasian's moneyers were removing the older worn coinage and replacing them with brand new coins and in the process keeping some of the familiar reverse designs that the Roman public had grown accustomed to.
With that in mind, this very rare coin which copies not only the reverse design from a denarius of Octavian, it also copies the obverse. The only change is with the reverse legend VESP AVG to indicate Vespasian's authority. Being undated, it is difficult to correctly place in the series. RIC assigns it to 74 AD based on the legends. D. Hendin to 71-72, just after Vespasian and Titus' joint triumph for the Jewish War.
This denarius is so rare I have only been able to locate six other examples, all of which are in public collections: BM 3 examples (one plated), Paris (BNC 121, obv die match with mine), Berlin (rev die match with mine), and ANA NY. Curtis Clay has kindly informed me of several other examples offered at auction: "Glendining, 1952, Ryan Part 5, part of lot 2147, not illustrated, 'only fine but rare.' Perhaps the same coin as Trau Sale, 1935, lot 625, pl. 8: a worn example. Stack's, Knobloch, May 1980, lot 300. VF, but small edge chip (the ANA NY coin). Leu, April 1982, lot 327, VF."
I think the RIC frequency rating of 'rare' really underestimates the rarity of the type.
Fantastic old cabinet toning on a large 20mm flan. David Atherton
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RIC 0680 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]312 viewsAR Denarius, 3.15g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l.
RIC 680 (C). BMC 129. RSC 664. BNC 105.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 146, 29 November 2005, lot 363.
A reverse type issued only for Domitian, most likely a reference to his part in the Judaean triumph of Vespasian and Titus.
"while taking part in the Judaean triumph, he rode on a white horse, the conventional mount for young princes on such occasions." (Suetonius, Domitian, ii)
A scarce coin of Domitian's part in a very important event in Flavian history. Nice portait with some of the beard still intact and a lively horse on the reverse!David Atherton
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RIC 0049 Vespasian281 viewsAR Denarius, 3.08g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VE-SP AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: No legend; Vespasian stg. r., with branch and sceptre, in quadriga r.
RIC 49 (R2, this coin). BMC p. 14 note. RSC -. BNC -. Hendin 1481.
Acquired from Ephesus Numismatics, December 2005.
An extremely rare Rome mint quadriga reverse commemorating Vespasian and Titus' Judaean Triumph. It is much more commonly seen from the Antioch mint with an obverse legend recording Vespasian as COS IIII. RIC dates this Rome mint prototype close to the triumph which occurred in 71. RIC co-author Ian Carradice knew of only three other specimens. This specimen serves as the RIC II plate coin.
Kind thanks to Harry Sneh for the attribution help.David Atherton
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RIC 0004 Vespasian263 viewsAR Denarius, 2.71g
Rome Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA in exergue; Judaea std. r., hands bound behind back, to r. of palm tree
RIC 4 (R). BMC 43. RSC 229. BNC -. Hendin 1480.
Acquired from Zuzim Judaea, May 2012.
The reverse commemorates the end of the Jewish War and is part of the 'Judaea Capta' series that Vespasian issued soon after he became emperor. The coin depicts a Jewess, seated before a palm tree (representing the land of Judaea), with her hands tied behind her back and in a dejected state mourning. Clearly no academic interpretation is needed to understand what is meant by this reverse design. This palm tree variety was only fleetingly struck and is much scarcer than the common Jewess seated before trophy design.
This coin is a replacement upgrade for one I purchased six years ago. Is it better? I'm not so sure. The flan is oblong (but large at 21.5 mm), the obverse slightly double struck, and the details are not as sharp on the reverse. With all that being said, I like the toning, the beaded border is almost in full on the reverse (a rarity for an early Vespasian denarius), and the style is quite attractive. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder after all.
David Atherton
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RIC 0513 Vespasian262 viewsAR Denarius, 3.19g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: SALVS AVG; Salus, draped, seated l., holding patera in extended r. hand. l. arm at side.
RIC 513 (C2). BMC 105. RSC 431. BNC 90.
Ex Ancient Auction House, eBay, February 2005.
Mattingly in BMCRE II credits this reverse to the safety of the emperor, a possibility that a recent plot had been thwarted.
A new hoard coin in excellent condition and struck on a large flan. David Atherton
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RIC 0006 Vespasian262 viewsAR Denarius, 3.07g
Rome mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TITVS ET DOMITIAN CAES PRIN IV; Titus and Domitian, togate, seated l. side by side on curule chairs, each holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hands at sides
RIC 6 (R). BMC 46. RSC 541. BNC -.
Acquired from Frank L. Kovacs, July 2006.
A reverse that announces Vespasian's desire to found a dynasty. Titus and Domitian are represented here as magistrates holding the branch of peace. A rare type.
A coin that looks much better in hand than the picture allows. I was pleasantly surprised when I first saw it. A reverse I have sought after for quite sometime. Earlier this year (2006) Harlan J Berk sold a coin of this type that was both an obv. and rev. die match with mine. After a casual look around, I was able to locate another die match. David Atherton
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RIC 0019 Vespasian (1)257 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Rome mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER FORT RED; Fortuna, draped, standing l.,setting r. hand on prow and holding cornucopiae in l. hand
RIC 19 (C). BMC 7. RSC 84. BNC 7.
Acquired from Beast Coins, March 2005.
A reverse type that wishes for a safe return of the new emperor Vespasian back to Rome after the end of the Civil war. Fortuna's hand resting on a prow is quite appropriate.
A nice coin marred only by the slightly off center obverse. The die cutters were still finding it difficult to come up with a portrait of the new emperor.David Atherton
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RIC 1411 Vespasian255 viewsAR Denarius, 2.80g
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, horizontal Φ
RIC 1411 (R). BMC 443. RSC 249. RPC 819 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Paganecoins, eBay, February 2006.
An early Ephesian denarius issue of Vespasian announcing his intentions of founding a dyansty.
A fairly scarce coin that I had trouble finding in good condition. This is one of the better examples I've seen...full legends and nice detail in a wonderful style.David Atherton
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RIC 0848 Vespasian (1)250 viewsAR Denarius, 3.29g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: COS VII across field; Eagle head l. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 848 (C). BMC 184. RSC 120. BNC 154.
Acquired from Bart Lewis, February 2004.
The BMCR speculates this reverse commemorates the passing of Mucianus 'the Emperor-maker', the former governor of Syria who helped Vespasian come to power. The eagle is a symbol of the afterlife.
A left facing bust of this type which is a bit scarcer than the right facing one.David Atherton
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RIC 0546 Vespasian240 viewsAR Denarius, 3.50g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG CENS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONTIF MAXIM; Vespasian, togate, seated r., feet on stool, holding vertical sceptre in r. hand and branch in l.
RIC 546 (C3). BMC 98. RSC 387. BNC 86.
Acquired from Pars Coins, March 2004.
A reverse that echoes the 'Tibute penny' of Tiberius. Vespasian as 'peace bringer'.
One of my favorite reverse types, here in excellent condition. The detail on the toga is magnificent.David Atherton
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![Titus_RIC_0985[vesp].jpg](albums/userpics/11162/thumb_Titus_RIC_0985%5Bvesp%5D.jpg "Filename=Titus_RIC_0985[vesp].jpg
Filesize=106KiB
Dimensions=511x263
Date added=Jan 20, 2009")
RIC 0985 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]236 viewsAR Denarius, 3.53g
Rome Mint, July 77 AD - December 78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIII in exergue; Goatherd std. l., milking goat l.
RIC 985 (R). BMC 230. RSC 103. BNC 204.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This type had been one of my 'dream coins' since I started collecting Flavian denarii. A very tough coin to find and one I couldn't resist. Curiously enough, it has a frequency rating of rare in RIC, as does the more common Vespasian variant of the type. I think the Titus is a bit rarer.
It is quite obvious that this reverse is part of an agrarian propaganda series. Unlike the goat referring to Jupiter as seen on a denarius of Domitian as Caesar (RIC 267 (Titus), this type has rustic overtones.
I love this reverse, well centered and fairly clear. Unfortunately, I only have the old dealer's pic. David Atherton
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RIC 0005 Vespasian235 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Rome Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TITVS ET DOMITIAN CAES PRIN IV; Titus and Domitian riding r., hands outstretched
RIC 5 (R). BMC p. 7, ||. RSC 539. BNC 28.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
A denarius of Vespasian from his first issue at Rome, dated from December 69 AD to early 70 AD by the new RIC. The reverse depicts Titus and Domitian galloping with their hands outstretched, an obvious dynastic type with the two princes 'as armed warriors on horseback' (BMCRE II p. xxxiii).
It was very important for Vespasian to establish the fact that his son(s) would succeed him. Indeed Suetonius writes 'either his sons would succeed him or nobody would' (Suet. Vesp. 25). The numismatic evidence backs this up. No less than 3 different precious metal dynastic types were minted at Rome in the first months of the new regime: The present type with Titus and Domitian on horseback, another with them seated on curule chairs, and a third with their confronting busts. Arguably, the horseback type is the rarest of the three with the confronting busts by far the most common.
David Atherton
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RIC 0941 Vespasian229 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VIII; Prow r. : above, star of eight rays
RIC 941 (C). BMC 210. RSC 136. BNC 186.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, November 2003. Ex unspecified CNG MBS.
A somewhat common reverse type which copies a design previously struck for Marc Antony. One of the major themes of Vespasian's coinage was his recoining of many past reverse types. Perhaps not chosen at random, many of these may have had some sort of contemporary meaning.
A most intriguing reverse type with the star and prow creating an eye appealing reverse design.
David Atherton
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RIC 1406 Vespasian228 viewsAR Denarius, 2.98g
Ephesus Mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP•CAES VESPAS•AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory, advancing l., holding wreath in extended r. hand and palm curving up in l.; horizontal Φ in lower l. field
RIC 1406 (R). BMC 435. RSC 280c. RPC 812 (4 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Amphora Coins, July 2006.
An early issue Eastern denarius of Vespasian, perhaps one of the first. Attributed to an uncertain mint in Asia Minor, the jury is still out concerning the exact location, Ephesus is the most likely candidate.
I love this coin. The portrait is one of my favorites and the style is simply beautiful. A welcomed addition to the collection.David Atherton
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RIC 0021 Vespasian (1)225 viewsAR Denarius, 3.36g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Aequitas, draped, standing l., holding scales in r. hand, transverse rod in l.
RIC 21 (C). BMC 17. RSC 94a. BNC 10.
Acquired from Nedao Coins, November 2005.
Aequitas, the goddess of financial equity, was an understandable reverse design for a new emperor borne out civil war. A common early type.David Atherton
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RIC 1431 Vespasian Countermarked225 viewsAR Denarius, 3.06g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD; Countermarked under Vespasian at Ephesus, circa 74-79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.; c/m: IMP·VES (ligate)
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory, draped, advancing r., holding wreath extended in r. hand and palm over l. shoulder. EPHE lower r.
RIC 1431 (C). BMC 457. RSC 276. RPC 833 (14 spec.). BNC 352; c/m: GIC 839
Acquired from Ancient Imports, November 2016.
In the mid to late 70's AD, Ephesus stamped older, worn Republican and early Imperial denarii circulating in the region with the IMP·VES countermark. Here is an exceptionally rare appearance of that Vespasian countermark on a denarius struck for Vespasian. I know of less than half a dozen other Vespasianic denarii similarly stamped. Of course the coin does not require any such countermark, therefore it is a remarkable mint error. The terminus post quem for the countermarking is 74, based on the discovery of another Vespasian countermarked Ephesian denarius dated COS IIII (CNG 78, lot 1753). RPC speculates that these countermarked coins represent a later 'issue' of silver from Ephesus struck sometime after 74 and before Vespasian's death in 79.
The mint workers applying the countermark were kind enough not to obliterate the portrait. David Atherton
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RIC 0853 Vespasian224 viewsAR Denarius, 3.41g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, bare, l.
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 853 (R2). BMC p. 34 note. RSC 374. BNC 161.
Ex Private Collection.
An extremely rare denarius from 76. Left facing, bare head, and COS VII combine to make this an exceptional coin. This is the 7th known specimen: Berlin, Paris, Gemini 2013, Curtis Clay 2010, Private collection, and ebay 2003 (RIC plate coin) are the other examples. All have the same obverse die, Clay 2010 and my coin are die pair matches. These bare portraits were struck with the Pax reverse in both 75 (unique) and in 76. Why the engraver chose an unlaureate bust is a mystery. Perhaps struck in error, which would explain why so few were minted.
I haven't seen a photo of the other unique bare head Pax type from 75 (RIC 773, Vecchi 13, lot 757), but Curtis Clay has confirmed it is a different obverse die and may possibly read COS VII! If true, the bare l. portrait was only struck with the COS VII Pax. Only having the coin in hand will solve the mystery for certain. *
A compact and neat portrait emphasising Vespasian's militaristic look.
* See my RIC 773 for confirmation of the bare head portrait in 75, added December 2017.
David Atherton
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RIC 0023 Vespasian223 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak round waist, advancing r., holding spear in r., holding spear in r. hand, and aquila over l. shoulder in l.
RIC 23 (C). BMC 11. RSC 87. BNC 12.
Acquired from Tom Cederlind, July 2005.
An early denarius struck with a Galba-like portrait. Before Vespasian's arrival in Rome, the mint's engravers really struggled to come up with an accurate portrait of him. On the reverse Mars may either be a reference to the Judaean War or, covertly, the recently concluded Civil War.
David Atherton
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RIC 0847 Vespasian (1)223 viewsAR Denarius, 3.21g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VII across field; Eagle head l. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 847 (C2). BMC 180. RSC 121. BNC 156.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, July 2007.
The reverse is possibly a reference to Mucianius' death, which occured around the time the coin was minted. Mucianius was the Governor of Syria when Vespasian made his bid for the purple and helped him secure the throne.
The eagle & base type's original design included a thunderbolt, although not well rendered because of the unwieldiness of the design. Over time, either from laziness or expediency, the engravers began omitting the thunderbolt altogether. It seems most of these were struck without thunderbolts, so they were probably dropped very early in the issue's production. It's rare to find the type with one.
I love the portrait on this coin, Vespasian seems to be smirking...the eagle isn't a bad one either. A few flan flaws and dodgy obverse legends do not detract from the eye appeal.
David Atherton
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RIC 1427 Vespasian223 viewsAR Denarius, 3.34g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVG and EPHE in oak wreath
RIC 1427 (C). BMC 451. RSC 40. RPC 829 (16 spec.). BNC 341.
Acquired from Akropolis Coins, February 2008.
An excellent example of Ephesus Flavian coinage. A banker's mark is in the obverse right field.David Atherton
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RIC 1312 (?) Vespasian213 viewsAR Denarius, 2.98g
Tarraco (?) mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Pax stg. l., with branch and caduceus
RIC 1312 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
A mystery coin if ever there was one. The portrait style suggests a provincial mint. Harry Sneh thinks it could be Tarraco. Ian Carradice believes it is provincial also, but acknowledges Rome had a widely variable portrait style early on and without a die link it remains uncertain where this coin was minted. I too think it is a bit unusual for Rome and so have tentatively assigned it to Tarraco. The obverse style is very much like that on the RIC 1308 plate coin from Tarraco. The Rome example of the type is RIC 29 for comparison.
Admittedly not the prettiest coin but certainly interesting for a Flavian collector!
David Atherton
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RIC 0977 Vespasian213 viewsAR Denarius, 3.19g
Rome mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IMP XIX in exergue; Goatherd std. l., milking goat l.
RIC 977 (R). BMC 220. RSC 220. BNC 193.
Acquired from Ancient Delights, August 2012.
One of the more interesting types issued in the whole of Flavian denarii. The goatherd milking goat reverse was minted along side a series of agrarian themed types (sow and piglets, modius and grain ears) perhaps evoking a message of agricultural bounty. The message and meaning of the reverse must have been very clear to city dwelling Romans but the subtleties are lost on us. The same type was also minted for Titus as Caesar, both types are very rare.
I had a devil of time finding this type, let alone one in such wonderful condition. Most of the reverses on these are worn away, here the rough cloak of the goatherd is distinctly visible. This coin is an obverse and reverse die match with the RIC plate coin.David Atherton
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RIC 0921 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]209 viewsAR Denarius, 3.12g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS IIII; Pegasus, standing r.
RIC 921 (C2). BMC 193. RSC 47. BNC 169.
Acquired from Nilus Coins, March 2007.
The reverse copies an Augustan one and might possibly allude to Domitian's foray into poetry. (BMCRE xl)
Unlike most of the crude Domitian portraits of the time from the Rome mint, this one has a great beauty and nobility to it that few of his contemporary denarii strive to achieve. Was it a minor slight that most of the better die engravers were used for Vespasian and Titus' coins? Thankfully one slipped through to create a wonderful portrait of the young caesar.
Despite some minor flaws, this is a wonderful coin that I'm happy to add to my collection.
David Atherton
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RIC 0371 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]208 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 72-73AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: No Legend; Titus stg. r. with branch and sceptre, in quadriga r.
RIC 371 (R2). BMC p.15. RSC 394. BNC -. Hendin 1483.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
Part of an issue that celebrates the Jewish War victory showing Titus in a Triumphal quadriga, much as he would've appeared during the joint Triumph he held with his father Vespasian in 71 AD. The type was issued both in Rome and more commonly in Antioch.
I have searched for a Rome mint issue of the type for many years and had no luck. Recently Harry Sneh offered this example to me, naturally, I couldn't resist. The coin is worn but most of the major devices are intact and the portrait is a wonderful example of the young Prince.
David Atherton
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RIC 0167 Vespasian208 viewsÆ Sestertius, 24.60g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to l., Vespasian stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass
RIC 167 (C3). BMC 543. BNC 497. Hendin 1504.
Acquired from Denarius, December 2018.
The Jewish War was an important event for the fledgling Flavian dynasty - in essence it gave them the legitimacy to rule. The ensuing propaganda onslaught after the 'Gotterdammerung' fall of Jerusalem in August of 70 is awe inspiring. We have Josephus' description of the joint triumph of 71 held for Vespasian and Titus in book 7 of his 'Jewish War', the buildings and monuments erected by the regime, and more importantly for our purposes we have the coins. Judaea Capta types were struck in all metals for almost as long as the dynasty ruled. The first flurry of these came in 71, presumably in conjunction with the triumph, amidst a great issue of bronze coinage that same year. One of the most iconic Judaea Capta types is this sestertius' reverse featuring a triumphal Vespasian with a defeated Judaea at his feet, not surprisingly one of the more common types from the issue. Vespasian is seen proudly standing holding a spear and parazonium (a triangular sword) with his foot on an enemy helmet, while Judaea is sitting on a captured cuirass in abject despair - take note of their size discrepancy. The iconography on display here strongly hints at what the spectators of the triumph likely witnessed. The slight of hand the Flavian regime devised which transformed defeated rebel provincials into a foreign menace is truly amazing.
'Ambition sighed: she found it vain to trust
The faithless column and the crumbling bust;
Huge moles, whose shadow stretched from shore to shore,
Their ruins perished, and their place no more!
Convinced, she now contracts her vast design,
And all her triumphs shrink into a coin.
A narrow orb each crowded conquest keeps,
Beneath her palm here sad Judea weeps.' -
Alexander Pope, To Mr. Addison, Occasioned by his Dialogues on Medals II. 19-26
Honest wear with some minor cleaning scratches.David Atherton
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RIC 0957 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]207 viewsAR Denarius, 3.44g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS V; Horseman, helmeted, in military dress, cloak floating behind him, on horse prancing r., with r. hand thrown upwards and back
RIC 957 (C2). BMC 234. RSC 49. BNC 207.
Acquired from Aegean Numismatics, September 2007.
Issued at a time when Domitian was aspiring to an Eastern command against the Alani, Mattingly attributes this type to that cause: The rider is Mars calling Rome to the field of battle.
Other theories suggest the rider is either Domitian or a soldier. Curtis Clay has also proposed the idea that this type may well be of a commemorative nature, since much of Vespasian's coinage are copies of past popular types.
A lovely coin in hand, the portrait was the reason this one found a home in my collection. David Atherton
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RIC 1089 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]207 viewsAR Quinarius, 1.46g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; Victory std. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 1089 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC 243.
Ex eBay, July 2016.
An extremely rare quinarius struck for Domitian Caesar in 79. RIC records only one example in Paris (BNC 243) and lists the rarity as 'unique', this specimen then is the second known example. Domitian's COS VI coins most likely date towards the end of Vespasian's reign and the beginning of Titus' rule, indicating the issue was struck uninterrupted after Vespasian's death in June.
Struck in good metal in neat and fine style.
David Atherton
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RIC 0356 Vespasian205 viewsAR Denarius, 3.50g
Rome mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVGVR (above) TRI POT (below); Priestly implements
RIC 356 (C3). BMC 64. RSC 45. BNC 49.
Acquired from Nilus Coins, June 2004.
This reverse type commemorates Vespasian's religious role as Pontifix Maximus, symbolised by the simpulum, sprinkler, and jug. The lituus is the symbol of the augurate.
Good example of an extremely common type. David Atherton
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RIC 0547 Vespasian203 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: S P Q R in oak wreath
RIC 547 (C). BMC 103. RSC 516. BNC 89.
Acquired from Ancient Coin Art, April 2006.
The wreath is the Corona Civica. What did Vespasian do in 73 A.D. to be awarded this honor by the Senate and People of Rome?
The occasion of this issue is in doubt. The BMCRE sites the restoration of Achaea back to the Senate as one possibility.
I love this reverse. The main reason I purchased this example is because of the wonderful detail and lovely style of the reverse. Most examples I have seen of this type are very worn and do not show the oak-wreath in such fine detail.David Atherton
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RIC 0357 Vespasian202 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP A-VG 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 357 (C2). BMC 65. RSC 74. BNC 51.
Acquired from Neptune Numismatics, January 2006.
A fairly common coin for Vespasian issued early in his reign. The BMC states that this coin celebrates Vespasian sharing power with Titus.
This revese was also issued from the Antioch mint.David Atherton
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RIC 0788 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]201 viewsAR Denarius, 3.36g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: CAES AVG F DOMIT COS III; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVT; Spes, draped, advancing l., holding up flower in r. hand and with l. holding up her skirt.
RIC 788 (C). BMC 156. RSC 375. BNC 135.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 155, 31 July 2007, lot 247.
During Vespasian's reign, Domitian was given the honorary title PRINCEPS IVVENTVT or 'Prince of Youth', celebrated here on this denarius from 74 AD. The title is one that was often given to young princes who were marked out as chosen heirs.
Spes, the personification of hope, is seen here on the reverse advacing left, holding a budding flower. The flower is a symbol of future well being.
Domitian's coinage during Vespasian's rule was unique. While Titus followed closely the types of his father, Domitian struck out on his own. One wonders how much of an input the young prince had on his own series.
A very likeable coin with a good portrait and excellent centring.
David Atherton
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RIC 1477 Vespasian200 viewsAR Denarius, 2.58g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VII; Winged caduceus
RIC 1477 (R). BMC 483. RSC 375a. RPC 1453 (7 spec.). BNC 371.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, October 2014.
These 'o' mint denarii (the 'o' is often not visible) struck for Vespasian, Titus Caesar, and Domitian Caesar are thought to have been minted at Ephesus due to a similar 'o' mint mark previously used at that mint. The types are the same as those struck somewhat contemporaneously at Rome. Mules are a hallmark of the series, perhaps indicating a lack of care in their production. The cadeceus type here is not a mule and copies a Rome reverse of Vespasian from 74.
Curtis Clay wrote these insightful comments concerning the series - "You write, 'thought to have been minted at Ephesus due to a similar 'o' mint mark previously used at that mint'. I regard that as a clear mistake by Buttrey and Carradice. Yes, annulets appear on some late Ephesus denarii too, but everything else is against attributing this later annulet series to Ephesus. Ephesus had its own reverse types, faithfully repeated from issue to issue. But the new series copies its rev. types from Rome, as you note. Ephesus had its own obv. legends too, usually dated with consulships. Quite different in the new series, again copied from Rome. The style is totally different. Errors, such as calling Titus PON MAX and many mules mixing obverses of one emperor with reverses of another, occur only in the later series, never at Ephesus. Against these blatant differences, the shared annulets are I think a mere trifle. A clear case of different mints in my eyes! So 'Ephesus (?)' should be dropped, and we should return to 'uncertain Asia Minor mint'."
Porous and fairly worn, however the major devices are intact and the portrait is quite fine.
David Atherton
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RIC 1066 Vespasian199 viewsAR Denarius, 3.41g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII ; Radiate figure, naked standing facing, holding vertical spear in right hand and parazonium, projecting sideways, in left, on column with anchor on front and three 'rostra' projecting on either side
RIC 1066 (R). BMC 253. RSC 560. BNC -.
Acquired from Ancient Caesar, November 2007.
A revival reverse design copying a similar type struck for Octavian (BMCRE I 103, 633). The column on the reverse depicts the monument erected to commemorate Octavian's victory over Pompey bearing the bronze rams of Pompey's captured ships and surmounted by a gilded statue. Rare with left facing portrait.
David Atherton
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RIC 1553 Vespasian199 viewsAR Denarius, 3.32g
Antioch mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: AVGVR above TRI POT below; priestly implements
RIC 1553 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Ibercoin Auction 18.1, 3 December 2014, lot 5106.
The denarii struck at Antioch often copied reverse types struck at Rome. The priestly implements reverse is a quite common type for Rome but exceedingly rare at Antioch. This is the second known specimen of the type issued from Antioch, a die pair match with the other example sold by G&M in 2004, the RIC plate coin. The obverse is also a die match with my very rare RIC 1557 Victory type. The coin is attributed to Antioch based on style - the crude lettering being a dead give-away.
A fantastic example nicely centered and in excellent condition.David Atherton
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RIC 1073 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]198 viewsAR Denarius, 2.46g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT VIII COS VII; Quadriga l., with basket of corn-ears
RIC 1073 (C). BMC 256. RSC 336. BNC 226.
Ex CNG E167, 27 June 2007, lot 139. Ex C. G. collection. Ex Stack's, 8 December 1988, lot 2197.
Struck in 79 during Vespasian's last denarius issue. The quadriga with corn-ears reverse possibly symbolises the importance of Alexandria as the granary of Rome and echoes an early reverse struck for Augustus (BMCRE II, p. xlii). Also of note, this issue is a break from earlier ones where Titus shared reverse types with Vespasian. This reverse along with the others minted for Titus Caesar in 79 were not shared with Vespasian.
David Atherton
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RIC 1558 Vespasian197 viewsAR Denarius, 3.14g
Antioch Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: Palm tree; to l., Vespasian stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r.
RIC 1558 (C). BMC 510. RSC 645. RPC 1930 (11 spec.). BNC 318. Hendin 1490 corr. (obv. legend).
Acquired from Jencek Historical Enterprise, July 2005.
A denarius that obviously celebrates Vespasian's victory over Judaea.
This is a typical example of a coin from the Antioch mint...distinctive high relief portrait , crude lettering, and a small flan.
A very much sought after reverse. David Atherton
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RIC 0042 Vespasian195 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VE-SP AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: Above, AVGVR, below, PON MAX; Simpulum, sprinkler, jug and lituus
RIC 42 (R). BMC 48. RSC 42. BNC 35.
Acquired from Rudnik, May 2007.
A reverse which underlines Vespasian's role as 'pontifex maximus'. In November of 70, Vespasian added PM to his title, hence the religious nature of many of the reverses of this issue.
A Very rare reverse to find with the PON MAX legend, most examples have TRI POT instead.
The coin itself suffers from some light scratches due to cleaning but this does not detract from it's over all appeal.David Atherton
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![titus_as_caesar_RIC_0160[vesp].jpg](albums/userpics/11162/thumb_titus_as_caesar_RIC_0160%5Bvesp%5D.jpg "Filename=titus_as_caesar_RIC_0160[vesp].jpg
Filesize=56KiB
Dimensions=600x286
Date added=Jul 25, 2008")
RIC 0369 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]193 viewsAR Denarius, 3.13g
Rome Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT; Head of Titus, bearded, laureate, r.
Rev: Palm tree; to l., Titus stg. r. with spear and parazonium, foot on helmet; to r., Judaea std. r.
RIC 369 (R2). BMC 85. RSC -. BNC -. Hendin 1482.
EX CNG E42, 12 November 2001, lot 64980.
This Judaea Capta type commemorates the end of the Jewish War and was struck in both Antioch and Rome. Here we have the much scarcer Rome mint example issued for Titus Caesar.
A pleasing portrait with a well worn reverse. The scarcity of the piece makes up for the state of preservation.David Atherton
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RIC 0027 Vespasian191 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER TR POT; Pax, draped, standing l., holding branch extended in r. hand and winged caduceus in l.
RIC 27 (C). BMC 21. RSC 94g. BNC 15.
Ex Amphora Coins, ebay, February 2006.
An early denarius issue struck for Vespasian within the first several months of the reign. Pax was an appropriate sentiment after the previous year's bloody conflicts. Not as commonly seen as the Pax seated types.David Atherton
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RIC 1407 Vespasian191 viewsAR Denarius, 2.89g
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.; below, horizontal Φ
RIC 1407 (R), BMC 437. RSC 291. RPC 813 (6 spec.). BNC 335.
Ex CNG E281, 20 June 2012, lot 301.
A unique to this mint denarius type minted early in the reign. The turreted female bust symbolises the world and the legend advertises the world peace brought by Vespasian. Flavian propaganda at its most positive.
Both portraits are in fine style and high relief.David Atherton
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RIC 0019 Vespasian (2)191 viewsAR Denarius, 3.45g
Rome mint, January - June 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS ITER FORT RED; Fortuna, draped, standing l.,setting r. hand on prow and holding cornucopiae in l. hand
RIC 19 (C). BMC 7. RSC 84. BNC 7.
Ex eBay, March 2017.
Early in Vespasian's reign the Rome mint had a hard time getting his portrait right because he spent the balance of his first year as emperor in Egypt. There is a wide variation in portrait types and styles until the mint was able to procure a suitable portrait bust. Some, such as the one on this common Fortuna type, are unmodified Vitellius portraits. Certainly this denarius was one of the first coined for Vespasian at the mint.
A strikingly unusual portrait struck on a large flan.David Atherton
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RIC 0950 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]190 viewsAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VI; Prow r.; above eight pointed star
RIC 950 (R). BMC 226. RSC 68. BNC 202.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This rare star and prow reverse is shared with Vespasian (not a very common one for him as well!) and is a copy of one issued by Marc Antony. Vespasian copied many types from the past, this is perhaps an odd choice for a reverse considering Antony was an enemy of Octavian. Why this particular type was chosen remains a mystery to me.
The BMC states the star and prow symbolizes the victorious admiral.
This denarius is rated R by the RIC, but as far as it's availability in the market place I would rate it R2! This was a most vexing coin for me to locate, again a friend who shares a common collecting niche as I came to the rescue and offered this one to me.
Quite a nice find. Not only a rare type, but also the portrait is wonderful, imho.
David Atherton
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RIC 0681 Vespasian189 viewsAR Denarius, 2.87g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS V across field; Laurel trees, two, upright
RIC 681 (R). BMC 133. RSC 110. BNC 108.
Acquired from Beast Coins, July 2005.
A direct copy of a reverse of Augustus. The two laurel-branches symbolise the laurel trees planted outside augustus' door.
A fairly rare reverse type, marred slightly by the porosity due either to the state of preservation or harsh cleaning; otherwise a fine denarius.David Atherton
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RIC 0529A Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]188 viewsAR Denarius, 3.48g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: SALVS AVG; Salus std., l., with patera
RIC 529A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection. Ex Dr. Busso Peus Nachfolger, Auction 404, 2 November 2011, lot 2570.
This Titus as Caesar denarius with Salus on the reverse coupled with this obverse legend is unlisted in all the major references, including the new RIC II. The coin comes from a series minted in 73 AD in which the Salus type was known for Vespasian but unknown for Titus until the present denarius surfaced. Ian Carradice has given this new type the number 529A (under Vespasian) in the RIC II Addenda. Also, this coin is an obverse die match with the RIC V531 plate coin.
What to my eyes makes this COTD worthy is not the rarity but the bold portrait which was described by the eminent Flavian collector Harry Sneh as 'striking'. I tend to agree. The reverse is weakly struck (worn die?) but well centered.
Struck on a huge flan and weighing 3.48g. This coin is a true beauty in hand.
David Atherton
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RIC 0850 Vespasian185 viewsAR Denarius, 3.44g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: IOVIS CVSTOS; Jupiter, bearded, naked, standing facing, sacrificing out of patera in r. hand over low garland altar and holding long vertical sceptre in l.
RIC 850 (R2). BMC 279. RSC 554. BNC -.
Acquired from Atlantis, August 2004.
Rare left facing portrait variety of the standing Jupiter type.David Atherton
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RIC 0872 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]185 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS; 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 872 (C). BMC 192. RSC 60. BNC 168.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins April 2008.
A mysterious reverse type struck for Titus Caesar and Vespasian in 76. H. Mattingly in BMCRE II hints that it might be a reference to the death of Mucianus which occurred that year. Mucianus was the governor of Syria who helped Vespasian rise to the purple. The interpretation here would be the eagle as a symbol of the after-life. I've always had my doubts about Mattingly's reading. The eagle when depicted on a funeral pyre or altar is an apotheosis type, here there is no such pyre or altar. The eagle sits upon a garlanded base, clutching a thunderbolt (missing on this specimen), with no legend referring to the eagle specifically. The following are the three main symbolic meanings of the eagle in the Roman world: as an attribute of Jupiter, a symbol of the Roman legions, a funerary type. In the case of the above coin, my guess would be the eagle is in the guise of Jupiter since a thunderbolt is clutched.
Variant version missing the thunderbolt.David Atherton
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RIC 1422AC Vespasian185 viewsAR Denarius, 2.64g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III 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 BY
RIC 1422AC (R2). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
An unlisted type for Vespasian's Ephesus Group 5 denarii. In the upcoming RIC II addenda this type should be assigned 1422AC. The confronting heads of Titus and Domitian is now the only type not known for this series, which Harry Sneh pointed out to me is likely waiting to be discovered. As far as rarity is concerned - one other example is known, ex Lynn collection, so R2. Both share the same dies.
Not only is this a very rare type, stylistically it is quite stunning. One of the best portraits of Vespasian I've seen on a coin.
David Atherton
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RIC 0961 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]184 viewsAR Denarius, 3.17g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS V; She-wolf and twins l. : in ex., boat
RIC 961 (C2). BMC 240. RSC 51. BNC 208.
Ex Paganecoins, eBay, February 2007.
The first instance of the she-wolf and twins reverse as a type on Roman Imperial coins. Domitian Caesar, unlike Titus Caesar, used different reverse types than his father Vespasian. The she-wolf and twins is unique to Domitan's coinage. One wonders how much leverage Domitian had for choosing his own reverse designs.
A wonderful coin with good metal and a pleasing portrait. The picture does not reflect this very well however.
David Atherton
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RIC 0041 Vespasian183 viewsAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VE-SP AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TRI POT II COS III P P; Pax, draped, seated l., holding branch in extended r. hand and winged caduceus in l.
RIC 41 (C2). BMC 61. RSC 566. BNC 45.
Acquired from Nemesis, June 2005.
Pax was a dominant reverse type for Vespasian, one could say it was his 'campgate'. After the Civil Wars and the war in Judaea, peace was something everyone wanted and needed. There are at least four different reverse types that depict Pax on his denarii.
A lovely coin with a solid portrait.
David Atherton
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RIC 1412 Vespasian183 viewsAR Denarius, 3.28g
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., horizontal Φ
RIC 1412 (R). BMC p. 92 note. RSC 278a, RPC 820 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
A fairly common reverse type from Ephesus that is rare with this mint mark. You could spend a lifetime collecting the mint mark variations for this mint!
Another wonderful high relief portrait, one of the best I've seen.
A bit off-center but with good details and fine style.
(Thanks kc!)David Atherton
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RIC 0360 Vespasian182 viewsAR Denarius, 3.32g
Rome mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VESTA; Vesta stg. l., with simpulum and sceptre
RIC 360 (C2). BMC 71. RSC 574. BNC 55.
Acquired from Beast Coins, October 2004.
A common Vesta type struck just prior to Vespasian acquiring the censorship. Vesta holding a simpulum here personifies Vespasian's duties as chief priest.
David Atherton
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RIC 0686 Vespasian182 viewsAR Denarius, 3.21g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PONTIF MAXIM; Winged Caduceus, up-right
RIC 686 (R). BMC 146. RSC 390. BNC 120.
Ex Harlan J. Berk BBS 148, 29 March 2006, lot 252.
The BMCRE states that this reverse is to be associated with the censorship.
A good example of mid-period Vespasian coinage. A reverse that is hard to find with the PONTIF MAXIM legend.David Atherton
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RIC 0759 Vespasian182 viewsÆ Dupondius, 14.46g
Rome mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: PON•MAX•TR•POT•P•P•COS•V CENS; Winged caduceus between crossed cornuacopiae
RIC 759 (C). BMC p. 219 note. RPC 1983 (6 spec.). BNC 905.
Ex eBay, 16 October 2018. Ex Klassische Münzen.
Traditionally, the issue this rather strange dupondius is from has been attributed to various different mints over the years. Ted Buttrey writing in the RIC II.1 Addenda commented extensively on it. Because both the Addenda has yet to see the light of day and T. Buttrey's thoughts on the subject are important (and indeed likely correct), I have largely quoted it in full here with some minor editing.
'RIC 756-767 are irregular Dupondii, which should be taken together with Asses, semisses and quadrantes (RIC 1564-1581), forming together a single extraordinary issue in four denominations, distinct in typology and metal, as well as overall character from the regular coinage of the year. Although Eastern in aspect and reverse type, the circulation area of the dupondii is almost exclusively Gaul, Germany, Italy – i.e. the West, with scarcely any penetration of the East. Finds of the smaller denominations are rarely attested anywhere, East or West. The Eastern finds appear to be simply the débris of Mediterranean circulation.
Previously the series had been attributed to Commagene (BMCRE II, pp.217-222), then as a likelihood to Antioch (e.g. RPC II 1982-2005). The correct attribution to Rome is proved by mules of the dupondii with regular issues (Buttrey, “Vespasian’s Roman Orichalcum: An Unrecognized Celebratory Coinage” in David M. Jacobson and Nikos Kokkinos, Judaea and Rome in Coins, 65 CBE – 135 CE (2012). The series had nothing to do with Syria or with the East at all, yet it was purposefully designed to appear non-Roman: the suppression of the traditional reverse sub-inscription S C throughout; the suppression of the radiate crown of the Dupondius; the shifting of the consular dating from the obv. to the rev.; the striking of all four denominations in orichalcum; and most obviously the selection of rev. dies which reek of the East.
There is nothing like this series in the whole of Roman imperial coinage. It is a deliberate act of Orientalism, imposing the flavour of the East on a Western coinage. The key to its understanding is the reverse type of the dupondius, two crossed cornuacopiae with a winged caduceus between. It replicates the type of an obscure issue of the Galilean city of Sepphoris, an issue which had been, astonishingly, signed by Vespasian himself (ΕΠΙ ΟΥΕCΠΑCΙΑΝΟΥ, “on the authority of…”) when on duty there in the last days of Nero. The dupondius-sized bronze was accompanied by a half-unit with the type of a large, central S C – again signed by Vespasian, and now imitated on the As of the orichalcum series with the wreath of the As of Antioch (RPC I 4849-50).
The whole of this series memorializes not Vespasian the conquering general (IVDAEA CAPTA, VICTORIA AVGVSTI), but the man. His re-use of earlier coin types is well-known; here he re-uses his own, harking back to his career just prior to his final success in seizing the empire. And the series was struck in 74 A.D., co-terminous with the celebration of Vespasian’s first quinquennium.'
The coin itself is a superb example in very fine style. Beautiful dark golden patina with highlights of emerald green. David Atherton
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RIC 0772 Vespasian181 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Pax, bare to the waist, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hand on lap
RIC 772 (C3). BMC 161. RSC 366. BNC 139.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, March 2003.
One of Vespasian's most common Pax types continuing a major theme in his coinage of peace and prosperity, courtesy of the Flavian house. Probably the most common denarius type struck for Vespasian.
This coin has sentimental value for being the first Flavian denarius I ever purchased. A nice one at that too.David Atherton
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RIC 1559 Vespasian181 viewsAR Denarius, 3.23g
Antioch mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: No legend. Vespasian laureate, standing in triumphal quadriga, r., horses pacing, holding branch in r. hand and sceptre in l.
RIC 1559 (C). BMC 512. RSC 643. RPC 1931 (9 spec.). BNC 320. Hendin 1491 corr. (obv. legend).
Acquired from Pegasi, May 2005.
A reverse that commemorates Vespasian and Titus' Judaean Triumph celebrated in Rome.
This denarius from Antioch is much more common than the scarcer Rome mint example. Issued as part of a series Antioch minted which were also Rome mint types.
A coin in excellent condition with much of the detail still intact. I love the high relief portraits of these issues.David Atherton
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RIC 1414 Vespasian181 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 BY in oak wreath
RIC 1414 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC 822 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This is an extremely rare type from the very rare "BY" COS II series. When the new RIC volume was first published only one known example (Vienna) of this type was known, since then my coin and another example from a CNG auction in 2008 have surfaced.
Not only is this coin rare but the portrait is very stylish and the condition is superb. The best known specimen of the type and a beauty in hand.David Atherton
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RIC 0043 Vespasian (1)179 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VES-P AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: Above AVGVR, below, TRI POT; Simpulum, sprinkler, jug, and lituus
RIC 43 (C2). BMC 50. RSC 43. BNC 36.
Acquired from Beast coins, May 2007.
The most common obverse legend with this reverse type. This reverse commemorates Vespasian's religious role as Pontifix Maximus, symbolised by the simpulum, sprinkler, and jug. The lituus is the symbol of the augurate.
A fairly decent coin in good shape. The flan is a bit ragged, owed no doubt to lack of the mint's quality control early in Vespasian's reign.David Atherton
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RIC 1416 Vespasian178 viewsAR Denarius, 2.90g
Ephesus Mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; Ceres, Veiled, draped, seated l. holding two corn-ears and poppy in r. hand and cornucopiae in l.; in exergue, BY
RIC 1416 (R2). BMC p. 93. RSC 66a. RPC 823 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Old Roman Coins, eBay, June 2004.
This denarius has a mint mark that the BMCRE attributes to Byzantium, however, modern scholarship is inclined to assign this mark and the other mint marked denarii of Asia Minor to the city of Ephesus.
The reverse type depicts Ceres seated on a throne holding the abundance of harvest. Issued soon after the Civil War, it may be a local expression of the 'fruits of harmony.' (BMCRE lxvi)
A coin which suffers from a touch of porosity due to it's state of preservation. Like many of the coins of Asian Minor, the artistic quality is very high.
David Atherton
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RIC 1463A Vespasian178 viewsAR Denarius, 3.16g
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; below throne, annulet; in l. field, star
RIC 1463A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Roma E6, 22 February 2014, lot 329.
An unlisted variant of an already rare type from Group 9. RIC 1464 has the obverse legend ending with an annulet and on the reverse a star in the exergue, annulet below throne. My coin has no annulet on the obverse and the star is in left field on the reverse. However, the annulet below the throne firmly places the coin in this group. RIC notes other coins with variant placings of mint marks in the series but has not assigned them unique RIC numbers.
UPDATE: Ian Carradice has assigned this variant its own RIC number 1463A in the upcoming addenda.
The coin needs a bit more cleaning but I shall leave it as is. The major devices and mint marks are quite visible and the dirt is not too distracting, IMHO.
David Atherton
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RIC 0046 Vespasian176 viewsAR Denarius, 3.56g
Rome Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VE-SP AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TRI POT across field; Vesta, draped, hooded, seated l., holding simpulum in extended r. hand, l. hand at side
RIC 46 (C2). BMC 57. RSC 561. BNC 39.
Acquired from Malter Galleries, January 2005.
Vesta holding a simpulum here symbolises Vespasian's duties as chief priest. A very common reverse type in good condition.David Atherton
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RIC 0873 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian] (1)175 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
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 -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
A very rare (R2) left facing example of the type.
Both obverse and reverse are off-center, but both major designs are intact and it's a better example than the RIC plate coin. This portrait seems to portray an angry looking Titus, a not so usual occurrence! David Atherton
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RIC 1120 Vespasian175 viewsAR Denarius, 3.10g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA DEVICTA; Palm tree; to l., Judaea stg. l., hands bound in front
RIC 1120 (R). BMC 388. RSC 243. BNC 297. Hendin 1488.
Acquired from eBay, March 2012.
A Judaea Capta type unique to the mint of Lyon. Minted in 71 AD, more specimens of this type are plated than not. Here is an example of the official solid variety. The evidence that this type was well know as a fourrée in ancient times can be seen from the test marks behind the neck and below the chin of the portrait. I'm not entirely convinced the plated coins are the work of forgers.
A fairly rare type that commands premium prices because of its historical connections. Could the plated examples be the work of unscrupulous mint workers?
**EDIT** Previously this type had a frequency rating of 'Common' in RIC, it has been updated in the A&C to 'Rare'.
Minted on a tight flan but with full legends. David Atherton
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RIC 1555 Vespasian174 viewsAR Denarius, 3.30g
Antioch Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: NEP RED; Neptune, naked, standing l., r. foot on globe, r. knee bent, holding acrostolium in r. hand, which rests on r. knee, and vertical sceptre in l. hand
RIC 1555 (C). BMC 506. RSC, 274. RPC 1928 (9 spec.). BNC 54.
Acquired from Nemesis, ANA Pittsburgh, August 2004.
An Antiochene denarius featuring Neptune as 'home-bringer' - copying a Rome mint type from 70. It was issued to symbolise the safe return of Vespasian over the seas after the Civil War.
A wonderful coin in excellent condition. I quite like the Antioch denarii, and this one is a good example why!David Atherton
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RIC 0776 Vespasian174 viewsAR Denarius, 3.27g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Victory, draped, holding wreath extended in r. hand and palm upright in l., standing l. on 'cista mystica', on either side of which is a snake, coiling up on it's tail, facing inwardly
RIC 776 (R). BMC 169. RSC 369. BNC 144.
Ex Harlan J. Berk BBS 145, 14 September 2005, lot 232.
A reverse type that may have been minted for distribution in the Eastern provinces to compensate for the recent closings of the Imperial mints in that region.
David Atherton
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RIC 1068 Vespasian174 viewsAR Denarius, 3.30g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Victory, draped, r. leg bare, stepping l. and setting round shield on trophy, consisting of helmet, cuirass, and greaves, below which sits captive l., veiled, mourning, with head propped on r. hand
RIC 1068 (C). BMC 246. RSC 552. BNC 214.
Acquired from Calgary Coin, July 2005.
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.
David Atherton
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RIC 1426(5A)2 Vespasian173 viewsAR Denarius, 3.19g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS; Heads of Titus, bare, r., and Domitian, bare, l., confronting; no mintmark
RIC 1426(5A)2 (R3). BMC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
A Vespasian dynastic denarius minted at Ephesus in 71. Normally this type should have a mint mark on the reverse between the busts of Titus and Domitian, oddly enough on this specimen it is absent. It is quite possible there was a series minted at Ephesus in 71 without mint marks, however the jury is still out. I also have an Ephesus Titus as Caesar from 71 with no mint mark (RIC 1426(5A)4) which lends credence to the no mint mark series.
A great coin in hand with a slightly small flan but a high relief bust.
David Atherton
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RIC 1477A Vespasian173 viewsAR Denarius, 3.28g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VII (from high l.); Winged caduceus
RIC 1477A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex eBay, April 2017.
A unique specimen of the caduceus type from the rare and mysterious 'o' mint. This rare variant has the reverse legend starting from the upper left, all other known examples start from the lower right. I informed Ted Buttrey of the coin and he has assigned it 1477A in the upcoming RIC II.1 Addenda.
Struck in good style on a large flan. David Atherton
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RIC 0981 Vespasian172 viewsAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: IMP XIX; Modius, standing on three legs, containing five ears of corn upright and two hanging over at the sides
RIC 981 (C2). BMC 218. RSC 215. BNC 192.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, March 2004.
A reverse which promotes Vespasian's new agricultural programme. A modius was the standard measure of grain in the Roman world. Normally the left facing portrait is rarer, which were struck at a ratio of 1:10 to the right facing types. However, in this one case the left facing are much more common.
A wonderful portrait matched with a highly detailed reverse. A slightly ragged flan is only a minor detraction.David Atherton
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RIC 0159 Vespasian172 viewsÆ Sestertius, 26.69g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDAEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to l. Captive stg. r.; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass; both figures surrounded by arms
RIC 159 (C3). BMC 532. BNC 490, pl. XLIV (same dies). Hendin 1500.
Acquired from Witter Coins, eBay, October 2019. Ex Triton V, 16 January 2002, lot 1913 (From the Robert Schonwalter Collection). Ex Worner List 1, January 1951, no. 394. Formerly in NGC holder #4683650-005, with grade 'F', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.
Ambition sighed: she found it vain to trust
The faithless column and the crumbling bust;
Huge moles, whose shadow stretched from shore to shore,
Their ruins perished, and their place no more!
Convinced, she now contracts her vast design,
And all her triumphs shrink into a coin.
A narrow orb each crowded conquest keeps,
Beneath her palm here sad Judea weeps. -
Alexander Pope, To Mr. Addison, Occasioned by his Dialogues on Medals II. 19-26
For Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen ... Thy men shall fall by the sword and thy mighty in the war. And her gates shall lament and mourn, and she being desolate shall sit upon the ground - Isaiah III.25-26.
In 70 AD Jerusalem was besieged and sacked and the Temple razed by the Roman forces commanded by Titus Caesar. The following year a massive joint Triumph was held in Rome for Vespasian and Titus to celebrate their successful conclusion of the Jewish Rebellion. Coins were also issued to commemorate their victory. These so called 'Judaea Capta' coins first appeared in late 70 just after the fall of Jerusalem in August, both in the precious metals and at first sparingly in bronze. It wasn't until 71, the year of the triumph, that the bronze coinage came into its own with a whole host of 'Judaea Capta' types. Probably the most famous of these depicts the ubiquitous date palm with a standing bound captive to the left and a seated Judaea to the right, both surrounded by arms. The second bronze issue of 71 saw these produced in massive quantities (Colin Kraay knew of 23 reverse dies paired with this obverse). Although the overall allegorical meaning of the reverse is readily apparent, what each individual device specifically symbolises is open to debate. We are on firm ground to assume the date palm represents the land of Judaea as H. Mattingly proposed in BMCRE II (although J. M. Cody speculated the palm possibly represents the Roman victory). The motif of the standing captive is copied from earlier Republican coin issues, reminiscent of the Gaulish and Spanish captives on those Republican types. His dress indicates he is a barbarian from outside the boundaries of Roman civilisation. In the spirit of the 'Vercingetorix' denarius, H. St. J. Hart proposed the captive is actually either Simon Bar Giora or John of Gischala(!), the two defeated Jewish commanders. The seated female figure is the personification of Judaea, the daughter of Zion. This figure is frequently seen on the various designs of the series, often paired with the palm tree. Her attitude of mourning and dejection leaves little doubt she is lamenting the defeat of her people.
Modern viewers see this as a forlorn scene of defeat, however, to the Roman coin designers the images are meant to convey victory over a worthy foe. The Jewish War was an important event for the fledgling Flavian dynasty - in essence it gave them the legitimacy to rule. The ensuing propaganda onslaught after the 'Gotterdammerung' fall of Jerusalem is awe inspiring. The slight of hand the Flavian regime pulled off which transformed defeated rebel provincials into a foreign menace is truly amazing. The coins were a major part of the regime's propaganda commemorating Vespasian's defeat of the Jews and saving the empire. Their efforts paid off, for even today this 'Judaea Capta' type is one of the most iconic and recognised reverses in the whole of Roman coinage.
Fantastic surfaces in good metal. A beauty in hand.David Atherton
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RIC 0703 Vespasian171 viewsAR Denarius, 3.48g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR - VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS V; Winged, caduceus, upright.
RIC 703 (C2). BMC 138. RSC 362. BNC 113.
A fairly good example of a common type.David Atherton
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RIC 0841 Vespasian170 viewsAR Denarius, 3.60g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VII (high in field); Cow stg. r.
RIC 841 (C). BMC 177. RSC 118. BNC 153.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, March 2004.
A reverse that may be part of Vespasian's agrarian series promoting the agricultural productivity of Italia and his responsibility for it (a sacrificial cow?). Alternatively, Mattingly has conjectured the reverse depicts the famous 'Cow of Myron' that was placed in the Temple of Peace. With many specimens of the type the sex is of the animal is unclear. This one appears to be a cow.
A denarius in good condition and no major flaws. A welcomed addition to the collection.David Atherton
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RIC 1065 Vespasian170 viewsAR denarius, 3.51g
Rome Mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TR POT X COS VIIII; Radiated figure, naked except for slight drapery round thighs, standing r., r. leg bent, resting l. arm bent on column, holding helmet in extended r. hand and transverse spear in l.
RIC 1065 (R). BMC 254. RSC 559. BNC 222.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, December 2003.
A revival reverse design copying a similar type struck for Octavian (BMCRE I 103, 633). The column on the reverse depicts the monument erected to commemorate Octavian's victory over Pompey bearing the bronze rams of Pompey's captured ships and surmounted by a gilded statue.
Fine style. The irregular flan shape is only a minor detraction.David Atherton
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RIC 0845 Vespasian170 viewsAR Denarius, 3.51g
Rome mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VII across field; Eagle head r. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 845 (C2). BMC 179. RSC 122. BNC 159.
Ex AAH, eBay, October 2007.
The scarcer right facing eagle of this common type. Variant missing thunderbolt.
A much better coin in hand than the picture would lead you to believe. Surprisingly I had a tough time finding this minor variant in decent condition.David Atherton
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RIC 0702 Vespasian168 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS V; Vespasian, togate, seated r. on curule chair, feet on stool, holding vertical sceptre in r. hand and branch extended in l.
RIC 702 (C). BMC 136. RSC 364. BNC 110.
Acquired from Barry P. Murphy, March 2004.
A coin that represents the Emperor as peace-bringer.
This reverse type brings to mind Tiberius' famous "tribute penny". The figure here is male, not female however.David Atherton
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RIC 1428 Vespasian168 viewsAR Denarius, 3.07g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III 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, EPHE
RIC 1428 (C). BMC 453. RSC 67. RPC 830 (12 spec.). BNC 343.
Acquired from Rutten and Wieland, March 2008.
The Eastern denarii of Vespasian are one of my favorite issues. Even though style wise this coin is of average quality for Ephesus, it would be above average for Rome. A truly fine denarius with excellent detail in the chair.David Atherton
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RIC 1363A Vespasian168 viewsAR Denarius, 2.90g
Uncertain mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., globe below
Rev: TITVS ET DOMITIANVS PRIN IV; Titus and Domitian std. l. on curule chairs, with branches
RIC 1363A (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Minted very early in Vespasian's reign, perhaps for the troops of Antionius Primus in Illyricum, who were some of the first to declare for Vespasian. The type is minted later in Rome in a somewhat similar style (Rome had an eclectic portrait style at this time due to the die engravers not knowing Vespasian's features prior to his arrival or before proper portrait busts were provided), however the difference in the lettering, the presence of mint marks, and the spacing dots all point to a separate mint other than Rome.
The series is very rare and has many shared die links. Curtis Clay pointed out this specimen shares the same obverse die as the RIC 1358 plate coin which has a globe mint mark below the bust, making this denarius a unique variant of 1363. It has been assigned RIC 1363A in the RIC II Addenda.
Where the series was minted remains a mystery. Unknown military or western mint it is for now. David Atherton
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RIC 1368 Vespasian168 viewsAR Denarius, 3.60g
Uncertain mint, 69-71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IMPER below; Vespasian riding l., r. hand raised
RIC 1368 (R2). BMC 419. RSC 221. BNC 378.
Ex Könker 304, 19 March 2018, lot 1085.
Fascinating coins often come out of civil war. In late October 69 the Second Battle of Cremona was fought between the legions of Vitellius and Vespasian. It resulted in the utter defeat of the Vitellian side and their slow retreat towards Rome. Not long afterwards the Spanish legions went openly for Vespasian, which up until that point had only been neutrally friendly toward him. Coins were quickly struck for Vespasian in the newly won province. Most of these are attributed to Tarraco and an unknown Spanish mint. Intriguingly, a small military issue was contemporaneously struck at an uncertain mint somewhere in the western empire - Mattingly thought perhaps Aquileia. The issue contains some stylistic affinities with the Spanish series, but more importantly, recent metal analysis by K. Butcher and M. Ponting show the silver content is almost identical to that of the Spanish coins. It is very likely these early military denarii were also struck in Spain in late 69 soon after the province went over to Vespasian.
Here we have an extremely rare denarius from that uncertain military issue showing Vespasian in military dress riding left in the act of addressing his troops. Clearly, this is a propaganda type that was produced to help consolidate the legions in a newly won province. The type occurs no where else and is unique to the series. The portrait bears no resemblance to Vespasian, which is further evidence of the coin's early mintage, perhaps pre-dating the other Spanish issues.
Struck in high relief on a large flan.David Atherton
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RIC 1431 Vespasian167 viewsAR Denarius, 3.39g
Ephesus Mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory, draped, advancing r., holding wreath extended in r. hand and palm over l. shoulder. EPHE lower r.
RIC 1431 (C). BMC 457. RSC 276. RPC 833 (14 spec.). BNC 352.
Ex Paganecoins, eBay, c. 2005.David Atherton
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RIC 0528 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]167 viewsAR Denarius, 3.12g
Rome Mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: FIDES PVBL; Hands clasped over caduceus, two poppies and two corn-ears
RIC 528 (R). BMC 91a. RSC 87b. BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This Fides type was issued under Vespasian in 73 AD and possibly is a reference to the grain supply. A very rare coin, this type is one I have not seen in trade. Harry Sneh said he has only seen two for sale ... this example he sold to me and his own specimen. The RIC plate coin would be a third we both know of. The BMCRE cites a specimen from the March 6, 1925 Recamier sale (p. 17).
A large flan and classic portrait makes for a coin with excellent eye appeal.David Atherton
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RIC 1424 Vespasian167 viewsAR Denarius, 3.32g
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS; Titus and Domitian veiled, togate, stg. front (heads l.), each with patera; below, BY mint mark
RIC 1424 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC 827 (1 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.
This coin has a lot going for it. The dynastic reverse type dated COS III normally has the EPHE mint mark on the reverse, here we have BY - extremely rare. The Group 5 series this coin is from is also exceeding rare, full of R3 coins and unpublished types. This particular type is listed in RIC as R3, citing an American Numismatic Society specimen (RIC plate coin), so second known example - both from the same dies.
Well centered with a wonderfully stern portrait. One of my favourite types from this mint.
David Atherton
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RIC 1340 Vespasian167 viewsAR Denarius, 3.15g
Uncertain Spanish mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
Rev: VICTORIA IMP VESPASIANI; Victory stg. l. on globe, with wreath and palm
RIC 1340 (R). BMC 362. RSC 630. BNC 30.
Ex Private Collection; acquired from Incitatus Coins, December 2012.
This early undated denarius of Vespasian is fairly rare and is minted in an eye appealing style. The mint is uncertain, but the reverse type of Victory and Globe was struck under Vitellius at Tarraco and the prominence of left facing busts of Galba and Vitellius from that mint suggests a Spanish location despite the different styles between the two series. Future die links will most likely clear the matter up. My hunch is that it is indeed Tarraco (as assigned in the BMCRE) and the style differences can be explained by different engravers working at the mint and/or the elapsed time between the issues. The Paris specimen (BNC 30) is attributed to Rome.
The coin is quite a beauty. The style is almost baroquely garish in its representation of Vespasian, luscious locks and all.
David Atherton
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RIC 0958 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]167 viewsAR Denarius, 3.12g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: COS V; Horseman, helmeted, in military dress, cloak floating behind him, on horse prancing r., with r. hand thrown upwards and back
RIC 958 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, September 2015.
Second known specimen of this type with left facing portrait. A die match with the unique RIC plate coin. Left facing portraits of Domitian are quite rare and highly prized by collectors.
In fine style with honest wear. The portrait is outstanding!David Atherton
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