AR Denarius, A.D. 70-72, Rome, 17.2mm, 3.01g, 180°, RIC II 30.
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M. Laureate head right.
Rev: AVGVR TRI POT. Sacrificial implements.
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Titus Flavius Vespasianus, commonly known as Vespasian, was Roman Emperor from 69 AD to 79 AD. Vespasian was the founder of the Flavian dynasty which ruled the empire for a quarter century. He was descended from a family of equestrians, who rose into the senatorial rank under the emperors of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Although he attained the standard succession of public offices, holding the consulship in 51 AD, Vespasian became more reputed as a successful military commander, participating in the Roman invasion of Britain in 43, and subjugating Judaea during the Jewish rebellion of 66 AD. While Vespasian was preparing to besiege the city of Jerusalem during the latter campaign, emperor Nero committed suicide, plunging the empire into a year of civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors. After the emperors Galba and Otho perished in quick succession, Vitellius became emperor in April 69 AD. In response, the armies in Egypt and Judaea declared Vespasian emperor on July 1. On 20 December, Vitellius was defeated, and the following day the Roman Senate declared Vespasian emperor.

Little information survives about the government during the ten years Vespasian was emperor. His reign is best known for financial reforms following the demise of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, the successful campaign against Judaea, and several ambitious construction projects, such as the Colosseum.

In his ninth consulship Vespasian had a slight illness in Campania and, returned at once to Rome. His illness worsened and he developed severe diarrhea. On 23 June of 79, Vespasian was on his deathbed and expiring rapidly. He demanded that he be helped to stand as he believed "An emperor should die on his feet". He died of a fever. His purported great wit can be glimpsed from his last words; Væ, puto deus fio, "Oh! I think I'm becoming a god!" He was succeeded by his eldest son Titus.