Vespasian AE Sestertius (Pax with torch, RIC II 241)

VESPASIAN, AD 69-79
AE Sestertius (33.95mm, 25.19g, 6h)
Struck AD 71. Rome mint
Obverse: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS III, laureate head of Vespasian right
Reverse: PAX AVGVSTI, Pax standing right, holding branch in left hand and in right a torch with which she sets fire to a pile of arms and armor; statue of Minerva atop column to left with shield leaning against it, lighted altar to right; S C in exergue
References: RIC II 241 (R2), RCV -

A very rare type, toned with brassy highlights. A classic portrait of Vespasian combined with an unusual reverse design.

“This most unorthodox representation of Pax belongs to the large and important series of aes issued in AD 71, the year that witnessed the joint triumph of Vespasian and Titus through the streets of Rome in celebration of their victory in Judaea. At this time, the Roman Empire had experienced five straight years of warfare, which had devastated the economy and threatened the very foundations of the empire. The goddess of peace here holds a flaming torch with which she sets fire to a heap of arms, the spoils of Rome's defeated enemies. This symbolic act was carried out in fulfillment of a vow undertaken to Rome's principal deities of war, Mars and Minerva. A statue of the latter appears atop a column accompanying the scene of celebration. The hope was that with the cessation of hostilities, the Roman people could now enjoy a period of tranquility under Flavian rule.”

- Classical Numismatic Group (lot description)

Collezione : Roman Imperial - the Flavians