Vespasian Gold Coin
Extremely Fine: Up to: £120,000
Coins from the reign of Vespasian (AD 69–79) are iconic, especially the “Judaea Capta” series, which commemorates the Roman victory in the First Jewish-Roman War. High-value specimens typically include gold aurei and well-preserved large bronze sestertii, which are highly prized for their historical narrative and artistry.
Most Valuable Vespasian Coins
- Gold Aureus (“Judaea Capta” Commemorative): These coins are the pinnacle for Vespasian collectors. They typically feature the Emperor’s laureate head and a reverse depicting a mourning captive (Judaea) seated beneath a trophy or palm tree.
- Market Value: High-grade specimens (XF) have been estimated between £80,000 and £120,000. More circulated examples (Fine to aVF) still command significant prices, often ranging from $11,000 to $13,500 (£8,500–£10,500).
- Mintage Information: Precise ancient figures are unrecorded, but gold issues were struck in much smaller quantities than silver or bronze, and “Judaea Capta” aurei are considered rare and important reference pieces.
- Bronze Sestertius (Rare Variants & “Judaea Capta”): Large bronze coins that offered a broad canvas for detailed propaganda.
- Market Value: Rare variants in Very Fine condition can cost around £1,100. Historic auction results for exceptional “Judaea Capta” sestertii range from $2,100 to $16,000, depending on the specific reverse design and strike quality.
- Mintage Information: Struck primarily at Rome and Lugdunum; specific varieties, such as those with an aegis on the bust, are classified as “extremely rare”.
- Silver Denarius (Ephesus Mint & High Grade): Silver was the backbone of Roman currency. Denarii from the Ephesus mint are noted for their exceptional strike quality.
- Market Value: An exceptional EF+ denarius from the Ephesus mint is valued at approximately £1,499. Standard “Judaea Capta” silver denarii typically range from £275 to £500.
- Mintage Information: Massive quantities were struck to pay the legions, but Ephesus issues are scarcer and of higher quality than standard Rome mint products.