Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 80-81 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24 g |
| Diameter | 34.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II.1#472, OCRE#ric.2_1(2).tit.472 |
| Obverse description | Head of Claudius, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG P M TR P IMP P P (Translation: Tiberius Claudius Caesar Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Imperator, Pater Patriae. Tiberius Claudius Caesar, emperor (Augustus), high priest, holder of tribunician power, supreme commander (Imperator), father of the nation.) |
| Reverse description | Spes standing, left holding flower in right and raising skirt with left. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
IMP T VESP AVG REST S C (Translation: Imperator Titus Vespasianus Augustus Restituit, Senatus Consultum. Supereme commander (Imperator) Titus Vespasian, emperor (Augustus), has restored [this coin], decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (80-81) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1011895770 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Sestertius, dated 80-81 AD, is a significant restoration issue minted under Emperor Titus. It honors the revered Julio-Claudian emperor Claudius, as indicated by "IMP T VESP AVG REST S C" (Imperator Titus Vespasianus Augustus Restituit Senatus Consulto). This strategic issuance legitimized the nascent Flavian dynasty by linking it to Rome's established imperial past, promoting continuity and stability after the tumultuous Year of Four Emperors. It showcased Titus's respect for tradition and commitment to a unified empire.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this Sestertius exemplifies the refined imperial Roman mint style of the Flavian era. The obverse presents an idealized portrait of Claudius, reflecting contemporary numismatic conventions for posthumous depictions. The reverse features Spes, the personification of Hope, typically depicted standing, holding a flower and lifting her skirt. This allegorical figure, common in Roman coinage, served as a reassuring symbol of renewed optimism and future prosperity, particularly poignant when solidifying a new dynasty.
Technical/Grading: As a large bronze Sestertius, the technical quality of the strike is paramount. Key high-points on the obverse Claudius portrait include the hair, brow, and ear. On the reverse, Spes's facial features, intricate drapery folds, and details of her attribute (likely a flower) are critical for assessing strike quality. A well-struck example exhibits strong relief across these areas, with minimal die wear or flatness, and good centering despite the inherent challenges of striking such large bronze flans.