RIC 328 Domitian

AR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POTES P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 328 (R2). BMC (spec. acquired 1987). RSC -. BNC -.
Purportedly found in the Alsace Region of France.

This coin is part of the 3rd issue of 85 (arguably the rarest issue of the year) and the last struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the fineness. Very few examples from this issue are known, the Germania type surprisingly being the most common. An obverse and reverse die match with the RIC plate coin in the BM as well. This specimen is from the Alsace Region, an area of much military activity early in Domitian's reign.

A beautiful denarius struck in the fine high style of 85 on a large (21mm) flan.