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Sestertius - Vespasian S C
| Issuer | Roman Imperial Mint |
|---|---|
| Year | 76 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
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| Obverse lettering | IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS VII (Translation: Imperator Caesar Vespasianus Augustus Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Pater Patriae, Consul Septimum. Supreme commander (Imperator) Caesar Vespasian, emperor (Augustus), high priest, holder of tribunician power, father of the nation, consul for the seventh time, censor.) |
| Reverse description | A hexastyle temple depicted in frontal elevation, rendered with a decorated pediment surmounted by acroteria and a prominent triangular tympanum adorned with figural sculpture in relief. Six columns are visible across the facade, set upon a multi-stepped podium; figures are discernible between the columns within the intercolumniations. Flanking figures appear at either side of the temple exterior. The senatorial authorization mark S C (Senatus Consultum) is inscribed in the lower exergual area beneath the podium steps, serving as the principal legend on this reverse type. The overall composition is consistent with RIC II.1 886, associating the reverse with the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus, referencing Vespasian's restoration of the Capitoline precinct. |
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| Additional information |
Vespasian's sestertius issues of 76 AD were struck at a moment when the emperor was actively rehabilitating Rome's financial infrastructure after the civil wars of 69 AD had left the treasury in serious disorder. His reputation for fiscal conservatism was well-earned — Suetonius records that he imposed new taxes and revived lapsed ones with little apology, famously defending the *vectigal urinae* with the remark that money has no smell.
RIC II.1 #886 falls within the later Rome mint output of his reign, by which point die production had stabilized considerably from the erratic early Flavian issues.