The Roman Empire
Vespasian, 69 – 79
Sestertius 71, Æ 26.69 g. IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III Laureate head r. Rev. PAX – AVGVSTI S – C Pax standing l., holding olive branch and cornucopiae. C 326. BMC 555. RIC 167. CBN 516.
A superb portrait perfectly struck in high relief. Delightful
brown-green patina and good extremely fine
Ex NAC sale 25, 2003, 409.
For the first time in many years the allusion of Peace (Pax) on coinage would truly be meaningful. The empire had struggled mightily during the recent civil war and was clearly ready for peace to be restored. Vespasian was able to do that and his reign was dedicated to rebuilding the calm that was desired after the incredible year of turmoil in 69 AD. MSG.