Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 74 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 7.3 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II.1#682, OCRE#ric.2_1(2).ves.682 |
| Obverse description | Head of Vespasian, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IMP CAESAR VESP AVG (Translation: Imperator Caesar Vespasianus Augustus. Supreme commander (Imperator) Caesar Vespasian, emperor (Augustus).) |
| Reverse description | Fortuna standing left on base, holding rudder and cornucopiae. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
FORTVNA AVGVST (Translation: Fortuna Augusti. Good fortune of the emperor.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (74) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1011007930 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This aureus, dated 74 AD, originates from the stable reign of Emperor Vespasian, founder of the Flavian Dynasty (69-79 AD). Following the turbulent Year of Four Emperors, Vespasian swiftly restored imperial finances and prestige. The reverse legend, FORTVNA AVGVST (Fortune of the Emperor), served as potent propaganda, attributing the era's stability and prosperity directly to the emperor's divine favor and successful leadership, reinforcing his legitimacy across the Roman Empire.
Artistry:The anonymous engraver produced a coin exemplifying Roman Imperial portraiture of the Flavian period. The obverse typically features a laureate bust of Vespasian, rendered with the pragmatic realism characteristic of his style. The reverse depicts Fortuna, goddess of luck, standing with a rudder, symbolizing control over the state, and a cornucopia, representing abundance. This design explicitly links imperial success to divine providence.
Technical/Grading:As an aureus, this coin typically displays a strong strike on a well-prepared gold flan. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include Vespasian's hair and the laurel wreath. On the reverse, observe Fortuna's facial features, drapery, the cornucopia's top, and the rudder's handle. A full, even strike and good centering are desirable, though minor flan flaws or slight die wear are common for ancient coinage.