Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 71 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 26.5 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II.1#127, OCRE#ric.2_1(2).ves.127 |
| Obverse description | Head of Vespasian, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III (Translation: Supreme commander Caesar Vespasian, emperor, high priest, holder of tribunician power, father of the nation, consul for the third time.) |
| Reverse description | Victory standing right, resting left foot on helmet, inscribing OB CIV SERV on shield attached to palm-tree. Legend starting low left. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
VICTORIA AVGVSTI S C (Translation: Victory of the emperor. Decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (71) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1009521400 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This Sestertius, minted in 71 AD, represents a crucial period in Roman history under Emperor Vespasian. Following the tumultuous Year of Four Emperors (69 AD), Vespasian, founder of the Flavian dynasty, brought much-needed stability and restored imperial authority. The year 71 AD was particularly significant, marking the formal triumph over Judea and the consolidation of his power. The reverse legend, VICTORIA AVGVSTI (Victory of the Emperor), directly references these military successes and the peace he re-established, serving as potent imperial propaganda to legitimize his reign and celebrate the empire's renewed strength.
Artistry:The obverse of this Sestertius features a mature and realistic portrait of Vespasian, characteristic of early Flavian numismatic art. This style moved away from the more idealized representations of the Julio-Claudians, favoring a pragmatic and somewhat austere depiction that underscored Vespasian's military background and firm leadership. While no specific engraver is known, the style reflects the prevailing imperial mint workshops. The reverse depicts Victory, typically advancing, holding a wreath and palm branch, symbolizing triumph and peace. The careful execution of Victory's drapery and the clarity of her attributes are hallmarks of competent imperial die engravers of the era.
Technical/Grading:For a bronze Sestertius of this period, key points to assess include the high-relief areas of Vespasian's portrait, particularly the hair, brow, nose, and chin, which are often the first to show wear or weakness in strike. On the reverse, the head, wings, and attributes of Victory (wreath, palm) are critical for determining strike quality. A well-struck example will exhibit full detail in these areas, with clear legend articulation. Due to the large flan size and the striking methods of the time, centering can vary, and minor areas of flatness or weakness, especially along the periphery, are not uncommon. A strong strike will also show good metal flow and minimal die wear.