IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III, laureate head right. / SALVS AVGVSTI around, S-C across fields, Salus seated left, holding patera and sceptre. 33mm, 22.19 grams. Rome mint, minted 71 CE. RIC 198; Cohen 437.

Vespasian (9–79 CE) was the Roman emperor who founded the Flavian dynasty and restored stability after the chaos of the Year of the Four Emperors in 69 CE. A seasoned military commander from an Italian municipal family, he won distinction in the Roman invasion of Britain and later in the Jewish War before being proclaimed emperor by his troops. As ruler, he focused on rebuilding the state: restoring finances through pragmatic taxation, strengthening the army, and reasserting central authority. He launched major construction projects in Rome, most famously beginning the Colosseum. Known for his dry humor, administrative competence, and practical leadership, Vespasian died in 79 CE and was succeeded by his son Titus, leaving a legacy of renewal and stability.