Titus

Titus Flavius Vespasianus, known as Emperor Titus, reigned from 79 to 81 CE and is remembered as a capable and compassionate leader, despite his brief tenure. He was born in 39 CE to Vespasian, a successful general who later became emperor. Titus grew up amidst the turmoil of political instability in the Roman Empire, which prepared him for the responsibilities of leadership.

Before his ascension, Titus demonstrated his military prowess during the Jewish-Roman War (66-73 CE), where he commanded Roman forces to suppress the Jewish rebellion in Judea. His efforts culminated in the Siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE, leading to the destruction of the Second Temple, a significant event for both Roman and Jewish history. The Arch of Titus, erected in Rome, commemorates this victory, illustrating Titus as a victorious general.

When he became emperor, Titus focused on improving Rome's infrastructure and caring for his people, showing a strong sense of responsibility. He funded various public works and continued many of his father’s construction projects, including the completion of the Flavian Amphitheater, now known as the Colosseum. This iconic structure became a symbol of Roman engineering and a gift to the people, hosting games and events to foster public morale.

Titus's leadership was tested by a series of disasters: the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, which devastated Pompeii and Herculaneum, a significant fire in Rome, and an outbreak of plague. Titus's compassionate response to these crises earned him admiration. He devoted resources to relief efforts, personally contributing to the recovery efforts in Pompeii.

Titus's reign ended abruptly when he died in 81 CE at the age of 41, possibly from natural causes or, as some sources suggest, assassination. Although his rule was brief, his legacy endures as an emperor who balanced strength with empathy, prioritizing the welfare of his people and earning the affectionate title of “the darling of the human race” in ancient records.

Titus' coins are fairly common so the challenge lies in finding a special example. This coin has all of the characteristics typical of the Roma Aeterna Collection: good strike and centering, a fine portrait, clean surfaces. What makes this coin special is the exceptional surfaces. The coin is highly lustrous and brilliant. What may appear like subtle scratches in the photo are actually raised die polish lines. If the Romans had made proof coins this would undoubtedly be one.