© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
Denarius - Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS Φ
| Silver | 3.53 g | 16 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Vespasian (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (69-79) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 69-70 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.53 g |
| Diameter | 16 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#250320 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Head of Titus, bare, right, facing head of Domitian, bare, left. Legend starts at the low right. Φ in right field.
Scripts: Greek, Latin
Lettering: LIBERI IMP AVG VESPAS Φ
Unabridged legend: Liberi Imperatoris Augustus Vespasianus.
Translation: Children of the supreme commander (Imperator), emperor (Augustus) Vespasian.
Comment
The difference between RIC 1401, 1402 and 1403 is the starting point of the reverse legend and the placement of Φ. RIC 1401 has the legend starting at the low left, while RIV 1402 and 1403 start at the low right. RIC 1402 then has Φ in the right field and RIC 1403 has Φ in the left field.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the first Roman emperor to be depicted with a beard, Vespasian. The beard was seen as a symbol of wisdom and authority, and it was a departure from the traditional clean-shaven image of Roman emperors. This coin was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire, with the Year of the Four Emperors (69 AD) and the Flavian dynasty (69-96 AD) that followed. Despite the political upheaval, the coinage of this period remained consistent in its design and quality, reflecting the stability and continuity of the Roman Empire.
