Dupondius - Vespasian (S C; Victory) (71) front Dupondius - Vespasian (S C; Victory) (71) back
Dupondius - Vespasian (S C; Victory) (71) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Dupondius - Vespasian S C; Victory

71 year
Bronze 11.5 g 28.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Vespasian (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (69-79)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
71
Value
1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
11.5 g
Diameter
28.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#250069
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Victory, draped, advancing left, holding shield inscribed S P Q R in right hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S C

Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 9.41–13.97 g;
Diameter varies: 27–30 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Dupondius coin featuring Vespasian and the goddess Victory is an interesting artifact from ancient Rome. One fascinating fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of significant economic reform. Vespasian, who ruled from 69 to 79 AD, introduced a new currency system to address the inflation and debasement of the Roman currency that had occurred under previous emperors. The Dupondius was one of the new coin denominations introduced by Vespasian, and it was designed to be equal to two sestertii or one-eighth of a denarius, the standard silver coin of the time. This coin's design, featuring Victory on the reverse and the emperor's image on the obverse, symbolized the Roman Empire's military prowess and the emperor's role as the leader of the Roman state.