... or in this case prow. Vespasian Æ As, 9.99g Lyon mint, 71 AD Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, r.; globe at point of bust Rev: VICTORIA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm RIC 1176 (R). BMC p. 201 note. BNC -. Acquired from London Ancient Coins, November 2019. This Lugdunese As was struck in 71 when both Lugdunum (modern Lyon) and Rome produced a massive issue of bronze coinage. Victory was a common theme on Vespasian's early issues and should be viewed in a generic context with no specific link to the Jewish War. This type with Victory sans prow are scarcer than those that include it. Oddly, the BMC cites Cohen for this variant obverse legend with 'VESPASIAN', who in turn cites a specimen in the Paris collection, although no such specimen is listed in the BNC. I was attracted to this coin for several reasons. I like the way in which 'AVGVSTI' in the reverse legend is broken up - 'AV GV STI', very unusual. Also, the large flan (29mm), dark coppery tone, and good Lugdunese style were added incentives. A really choice piece in hand.
