Veristic Vespasian

Discussion in 'Ancient Coins' started by David Atherton, Feb 20, 2023.

  1. David Atherton

    David Atherton Flavian Fanatic

    A great bargain from eBay ... purchased primarily for the low price, but more importantly because of the fantastic portrait. When this coin was struck late in Vespasian's reign his portraits had evolved into the classic 'straining' style that has since become iconic.


    V1011.jpg
    Vespasian
    Æ As, 11.76g
    Rome mint, 77-78 AD
    Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN COS VIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, l.
    Rev: S C in field; Spes stg. l., with flower
    RIC 1011 (C). BMC 739. BNC 776.
    Acquired from eBay, January 2023.

    Spes, the goddess of hope, is seen here as an 'heir apparent' type. She is represented on Roman coins as a young girl, reminiscent of earlier Greek cult statues depicting Elpis. H. Mattingly in BMCRE II says 'the flower held by Spes is an opening bud, she is raising her skirt in order to hasten forward'. Spes occurs quite commonly under Vespasian and is frequently paired up with all three Flavians as a hopeful expression of future dynastic success.

    And in hand.



    As always, thanks for looking/watching!
     
  2. Avatar

    Guest User Guest



    to hide this ad.
  3. Inspector43

    Inspector43 Celebrating 75 Years Active Collecting Supporter

    Why is the obverse backwards?
    Never mind.
     
  4. David Atherton

    David Atherton Flavian Fanatic

    Figured it out? lol
     
    Inspector43 likes this.
  5. Inspector43

    Inspector43 Celebrating 75 Years Active Collecting Supporter

    Yes, thank you. I had never seen one before.
     
    David Atherton likes this.
  6. GinoLR

    GinoLR Well-Known Member

    When on SC bronze coins, counterclockwise obv. legends are rare and only for the Flavians. I have a rare Domitian with a counterclockwise obv. legend:
    domit.jpg
     
  7. David Atherton

    David Atherton Flavian Fanatic

    During the Flavian era left facing portraits are generally more rare than right facing ones, especially so under Domitian! Although, under Titus as Augustus they seem more common on his bronzes.
     
    Inspector43 likes this.
  8. Inspector43

    Inspector43 Celebrating 75 Years Active Collecting Supporter

    Thanks, I appreciate the feedback.
     
    David Atherton likes this.
Draft saved Draft deleted

Share This Page