Sestertius - Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian (CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT S C) (71) front Sestertius - Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian (CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT S C) (71) back
Sestertius - Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian (CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT S C) (71) photo
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica

Sestertius - Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT S C

71 year
Bronze 25.9 g 34 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 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
25.9 g
Diameter
34 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#249034
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Titus and Domitian, standing left and right, both holding spears; Titus also holding parazonium and Domitian holding roll.

Script: Latin

Lettering: CAES AVG F DES IMP AVG F COS DES IT S C

Translation:
Caesar Augusti Filius, Designatus, Imperator Augusti Filius, Consul Designatus Iterum, Senatus Consultum.
Caesar, son of the emperor (Augustus), [consul] elect. Supreme commander (Imperator), son of the emperor (Augustus), consul elect for the second time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 24.58–26.83 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare combination of three emperors: Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian. This coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was transitioning from a republic to an empire, and it represents a unique moment in history where three powerful leaders shared rule. Additionally, the coin's design includes the abbreviation "COS DES IT S C," which stands for "Consul, Designee, Imperator, Senator, and Caesar," highlighting the various titles and roles held by these emperors.