Hemiassarion - Vespasian (ϹΑΡΔΙΑΝΩΝ; Sardis)
Obverse
Draped bust of Mên, right, wearing Phrygian cap; crescent on his shoulders
Lettering: EΠI TI KΛAY ΦIΛEINOY CTΡA
Reverse
Inscription in three lines within laurel wreath tied below
Lettering: CAΡ/ΔIA/NΩN
Basic Information
Category
Coin
Ruler
Vespasian (Wikidata) (Nomisma)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
variable
Demonetization
Yes
Face Value
Hemiassarion (Numeric: 0.05)
References
RPC Online II #1307
SNG Leypold 1 #1192
Physical Characteristics
Composition
Bronze
Weight
2.48 g
Size
12.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technical Details
Obverse Lettering
EΠI TI KΛAY ΦIΛEINOY CTΡA
Reverse Lettering
CAΡ/ΔIA/NΩN
Comments
Time of Vespasian (69-79AD). The Phrygian cap was a symbol of the Anatolians and was used by the Romans to represent barbarians. It only became associated with liberty in the American and French Revolutions, when it was confused with the pileus, a felt hat given to Roman slaves when freed.
These are often overstruck. The illustrated coin is struck over another hemiassarion of Sardes, issued most likely under Nero (showing CAPΔ from EΠI TI MNACEOY CAPΔIANΩN on the obverse and KAIC from NEPΩN KAICAP, Nero Caesar, on the reverse)
