Divus Augustus (died 14 AD), As/Dupondius, Rome Mint, struck under Titus, 80 AD – RRRR

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Description

Roman Imperial,  Divus Augustus (died 14 AD), As/Dupondius (orichalcum, 10.1g, 26.6mm), Rome Mint, struck under  Titus, 80 AD
Obv: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER; radiate head of Divus Augustus left
Rev: IMP·T·VESPAS AVG REST;  S-C across center fields, square altar with closed doors and two horns on top, PROVIDENT in exergue
Ref: RIC (Titus) 191; BMCRE (Titus) 268; cf. Heritage Auctions, Auction 3054, (7/4/2017), lot 30210 Rarity/Choice: Very Rare, VF (very wavy flan and holed, scratches on the reverse, otherwise, beautiful dark brown-green patina, nicely centered)
Note: Divus Augustus, originally known as Augustus, was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first emperor, ruling from 27 BC until his death in AD 14. Following his death, Augustus was deified by the Senate, earning the title “Divus Augustus” (the Divine Augustus). His reign established the Pax Romana, a long period of relative peace and stability across the empire. “DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER” translates to “Divine Augustus the Father,” emphasizing Augustus’s deified status and his role as the pater patriae, or father of the country. “IMP · T · VESPAS AVG REST S – C” stands for “Imperator Titus Vespasianus Augustus Restituit Senatus Consulto,” which translates to “Emperor Titus Vespasian Augustus Restored by Decree of the Senate.” The restitution issue by Titus in AD 80 served to reinforce the legitimacy of the Flavian dynasty by associating it with the revered figure of Augustus. By issuing coins honoring Augustus, Titus sought to emphasize continuity and stability, linking his rule to the golden age of Augustus. The Orichalcum Dupondius of Divus Augustus, issued by Titus, is a notable coin that reflects the Roman practice of honoring deified emperors. The obverse, featuring the radiate head of Augustus, emphasizes his deification and enduring legacy. The reverse, depicting an altar with closed doors, signifies the religious reverence and providence associated with Augustus. This coin not only served as a medium of exchange but also as a powerful symbol of the divine and enduring legacy of Augustus, reinforcing the legitimacy of Titus’s rule and the continued prosperity of the Roman Empire under his guidance.

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