This coin was struck to commemorate the deification of Vespasian during the reign of his son Titus. Dynastic issues such as this were rather common during the first half of the imperial period. They help to legitimate the current ruler, in this case Titus, by reminding the public of the accomplishments of his father, Vespasian. In addition to deceased past rulers, the emperor’s heirs often appear on coinage as well. Jonathan Gress 2011.