Pre-Long Beach Auction #91

Vespasian, AD 69-79. Gold Aureus (7.32g) Superb EF. Mint of Rome AD 76. Laureate head of Vespasian facing right. Reverse: COSVII. Heifer standing right. Calicó 622; RIC II-25-96; C-117. Well struck with underlying luster present. Superb Extremely Fine.
The reverse recalls the occasion in 28 BC when Augustus dedicated the temple of Apollo on the Palatine. The temple's centerpiece was an altar with four statues of heifers by the great sculpteor Myron of Eleutherae. This theme was again used by Vespasian and his brother Titus suggesting that the use of the heifer design as a bridge to the earlier reign of Augustus. Estimated Value $15,000 - 20,000

Tom Peterson collection; Private purchase from Tom Cederline.