Obverse: Laureate, bust of Vespasian right. Text around IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M TR P P P COS III.

Reverse: Nemesis advancing right, drawing out fold of dress at neck with left hand and holding a caduceus over serpent advancing right before her. Text around PACI AVGVSTI.

History: By 71 AD, the lengthy unrest in Gaul was successfully quelled by Vespasian's generals. The revolt in Civilis was particularly problematic since it threatened to weaken the Rhine frontier and could renew troubles in other empire regions. Thus, the device of Nemesis, the harbinger of swift and stinging retribution, and its minting at Lugdunum, made a pointed statement about Vespasian's abilities as emperor that neither the local citizenry, nor anyone else in the empire, could fail to recognize. A noteworthy example with important historical connections.

Date: Lugdunum mint, 71AD

Diameter: 1.9cm