Vespasian AR Denarius 74 CE RIC 1457

Vespasian AR Denarius 74 CE (Group 8)

Obv: Laureate head right; IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS V TR P PP

Rev: Victory advancing right with wreath and palm; star at lower right; PACI AVGUVSTAE

RIC 1457(C); BMC 475; RSC 277

NGC Cert # 4683673-004; CH VF

Stacks Bowers The February 2021 World Collectors Choice Online Auction Lot 71059 February 23, 2021

This gorgeous little coin features a stunning portrait of Vespasian.It is of course an issue of Ephesus. Though thou the coin is not rare I had to have it for this portrait. The other thing I like about the Ephesian coins is the use of interesting reverse types. This one PACI AUGVSTAE references the peace established by the emperor. A little bit rich for Vespasian as he and his son conquered Judea. Vespasian also served as a general in Great Britain. Maybe this is a reference to "peace through strength" .

The other feature of interest in the mintmark on the reverse. Look near the feet of Victory. It does not look like it now but that mark is a star. Until I bought this coin I only had one other, RIC 1453. Unfortunately the mintmark on that one is off flan. I would love to find an Ephesian denarius with both the star and an annulet (an annulet is a ring). Those coins are all extremely rare. shape of their coin.

I do not collect for condition but one can hardly help acknowledge the superb condition of this coin. Also, the coin has full legends and the obverse is very well centered. However, I also like coins that are well worn because they tell an interesting story as well. Worn coins make me wonder who handled the coins and what was purchased with them. Honestly, I expect something that is almost 2000 years to have some wear.