Coin (obverse), Denarius, of Vespasian

Add to album

This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Vespasian in 73 AD. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the obverse of the coin.

The obverse depicts the head of Vespasian wearing a laurel wreath. The inscription 'IMP CAES VESP AVG CENS' around him is an abbreviation of the emperor's name and some of his titles.

Silver coins of the early empire were struck to good weight and metal purity. Over time, however, the issues became lighter and the purity was debased. Perhaps there was not enough metal available to mint the vast numbers of coins needed to pay the army and to fund other special payments.

Record details

To search on related items, click any underlined text below.

• Online ID: 000-180-001-518-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1969.207
• Date: 73
  Minted in 73 AD
  
• Material: Silver. Inscription: Obv. IMP CAES VESP AVG CENS; head of Vespasian, laureate, r. / Rev. PONTIF MAXIM; Vespasian seated r.
  Coin Type: RIC 65
  Coin, denarius
  
• Dimensions: 18.00 mm D / Die Axis: 12.0
  
• What: Coin Type: RIC 65
  Coin, denarius
  
• Subject: Ancient Coin Collection
  
• Who: Vespasian
  
• Where: Italy, Rome
  
• Event:
• Description: Silver denarius of Vespasian, Rome, 73
  
• References:
  • Mattingly, Harold and Sydenham, Edward A. The Roman Imperial Coinage. Vol. II. Vespasian to Hadrian. London: Spink & Son, Ltd, 1926. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: