98. Vespasian Silver Denarius

'GVF/VF+'

Vespasian, AR Denarius, 69-71, Rome [IMP] CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG Laureate head right COS ITE_R-T_R POT Pax seated left on throne, holding branch upward in right hand, caduceus in left, drapery hanging beneath throne. GVF/VF+ A truly fine example with lovely blue and purple toning.

Titus Flavius Vespasianus was born in AD 9. Though of humble birth, he became the founder of the Flavian dynasty and was emperor between AD 69 - 79 AD.

Condition: GVF/VF+ (This coin is in uncleaned condition since purchase).

Dimensions: Dia. 1.8cm.

Provenance: Ex. my own UK collection; Purchased at Lockdales Coins & Antiquities.

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Vespasian

Titus Flavius Vespasianus was born in AD 9. Though of humble birth, he became the founder of the Flavian dynasty and was emperor between AD 69 - 79. He entered politics rather late and at the urging of his mother; he survived the reign of Gaius by flattering the emperor and commanded a legion in Germany for Claudius. He lost Nero's favour by failing to appreciate the emperor's musical recitals but was appointed to deal with the province of Judaea, where civil discontent was turning into open rebellion.

Vespasian got news of the succession struggles in Rome as Galba, Otho, and Vitellius made their bids for power. He sent troops to Italy and himself went to Alexandria to take control of Italy's grain supply. As soon as he had word of Vitellius' demise, Vespasian went to Rome himself and set about restoring the city that had suffered at the hands of the warring would-be emperors.

He was a popular emperor and was later deified, Vespasian treated all classes well and reformed the Senatorial order. He was remembered as just and fair, a welcome change after Nero and his successors. He died after catching fever on a visit to Campania.