Analysis Vespasian was an important military leader under Nero and was responsible for subjugating Judaea during the Jewish rebellion of AD 66. Nero committed suicide in AD 68 resulting in a year of civil war, known as the Year of the Four Emperors (AD 69). Galba and Otho perished quickly, and Vitellius became Emperor in April AD 69. In response, Vespasian’s armies in the Eastern provinces declared Vespasian Emperor on 1 July. Vespasian’s troops then defeated Vitellius, and he seized the throne. Vespasian faced an immediate dilemma: whilst a successful military leader, he lacked authority and majesty. He undertook a comprehensive program of propaganda designed to solve the problem, and to confirm the legitimacy of himself and his successors, thereby establishing the Flavian dynasty.5 Coinage was a vital element in this propaganda campaign, as coins could convey a meaning or relate an idea via their imagery and inscriptions. As a soldier-ruler-unlike Nero-Vespasian’s first claim was to commemorate a major military victory.6 The bronze Sestertius under discussion here is a direct historical reference to the conquest of Judaea, symbolized by the palm tree, and the mourning Jews.7 Many other coins of the period, of many denominations, also feature the IVDAEA CAPTA theme, with captive Jews, some depicted with the victorious Emperor. 8 The commemorative coins were followed by a “splendid” series of brass coins in AD 71, continuing the themes of victory over danger, and regained confidence for the future.9 The Civil War was over, and Rome again stood firm. Vespasian’s coinage displayed messages of restoration, peace, and stability, indeed “the considered commentary of the new government on the troubled chapter of history that had just closed”.10 During this year the mints of Rome began to produce coins at their normal rates, also signaling an end to the cloud of civil strife.11 The images upon these coins offered hope for the