Sestertius - Augustus IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII

Historical Context: This Sestertius, dated 80-81 AD, places it late in the brief reign of Emperor Titus Flavius Vespasianus. The obverse legend, IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII, highlights his imperial titles, including "son of the deified Vespasian," reinforcing the Flavian dynastic legitimacy. His eighth consulship and tribunician power further underscore his authority. This period saw the completion of the Colosseum and significant natural disasters, yet Titus was remembered for his benevolent rule, often referred to as "the darling of mankind."

Artistry: Roman imperial coinage of the Flavian era, while not attributed to specific engravers, exemplifies the classical tradition with a strong emphasis on realistic portraiture. The obverse likely features a laureate bust of Titus, rendered with a veristic approach characteristic of the period, capturing his mature features and imperial gravitas. The stylistic school favored a robust yet refined aesthetic, ensuring the emperor's image conveyed both power and a degree of personal accessibility, a hallmark of Flavian propaganda. Reverse designs typically depicted allegories or architectural marvels.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze with a weight of 24.99 grams, this Sestertius falls within the expected parameters for the denomination. Key high-points for grading a laureate portrait would include the details of the hair over the forehead, the laurel wreath and ties, the nose, and the chin. A well-struck example would exhibit sharp, full details on both obverse and reverse, with minimal flan defects or evidence of die wear. Given the large module of Sestertii, weaker strikes or slight off-centering are not uncommon, impacting the overall technical quality.