David Atherton Posted February 20, 2023 · Member Share Posted February 20, 2023 (edited) Another bargain from eBay ... purchased for the low price, but more importantly because of the fantastic portrait. By the time this coin was struck late in Vespasian's reign his portraits had evolved into the classic 'straining' style that has since become iconic. 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! Edited February 20, 2023 by David Atherton 16 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CPK Posted February 20, 2023 · Supporter Share Posted February 20, 2023 Nice bronze! It might have been a bargain but the coin would grace any collection. That is interesting about Spes. I have a similar coin, struck under Vespasian featuring Titus and the goddess. Something appealing about an anepigraphic reverse too. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tejas Posted March 14, 2023 · Member Share Posted March 14, 2023 The video is great. The coin looks to be very attractive in hand. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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