Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 72-73 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 33 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II.1#378, OCRE#ric.2_1(2).ves.378 |
| Obverse description | Head of Vespasian, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS IIII (Translation: Imperator Caesar Vespasianus Augustus Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Pater Patriae, Consul Quartum. Supreme commander (Imperator) Caesar Vespasian, emperor (Augustus), high priest, holder of tribunician power, father of the nation, consul for the fourth time.) |
| Reverse description | Pax standing left, holding branch and cornucopiae. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
PAX AVGVSTI S C (Translation: Pax Augusti. Senatus Consultum. Peace provided by the Emperor. Decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (72-73) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1000768250 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Sestertius, issued 72-73 AD, belongs to the early reign of Vespasian, founder of the Flavian Dynasty. Following the tumultuous Year of Four Emperors, Vespasian brought essential stability, rebuilding Rome's infrastructure and finances. The coin's legend, PAX AVGVSTI, reflects the emperor's successful efforts in re-establishing peace and order, a crucial message for public confidence and imperial legitimacy after civil strife.
Artistry: This Sestertius exemplifies the early Flavian stylistic school, blending realism with imperial gravitas. The obverse typically presents a laureate and draped bust of Vespasian. The reverse masterfully depicts Pax, the goddess of Peace, standing left, holding an olive branch—a universal symbol of peace—and a cornucopia, signifying prosperity. This iconographic pairing directly reinforces the imperial message of a prosperous peace, actively secured and distributed by Vespasian through coinage.
Technical/Grading: As a large bronze Sestertius, approximately 25 grams and 33 millimeters, this coin offered a substantial canvas for imperial messaging. Key high-points for assessing wear on the obverse include Vespasian's hair, laurel wreath, and facial features. On the reverse, attention focuses on Pax's drapery, facial features, and her attributes. Well-centered examples with strong, even strikes are highly prized, as are those retaining excellent surface preservation and an attractive, stable patina, critical for bronze coinage.