Denarius - Vespasian GENIVM P R, Genius

Vespasian's first months as emperor were spent consolidating power after the chaos of 69 AD — the Year of the Four Emperors — during which Galba, Otho, and Vitellius had each seized and lost the throne in rapid succession. Issues from this earliest period of his reign carry particular weight as statements of legitimacy rather than routine coinage. The GENIVM P R type, invoking the Genius of the Roman People, was a deliberate choice: Vespasian needed the populace, not just the legions, and this type broadcast that appeal in metal.

RIC II.1 1354 is catalogued among the earliest Flavian emissions, placing its production in the immediate aftermath of Vitellius's death in December 69.