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RIC 169 Domitian
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AR Denarius, 3.44g
Rome mint, 83 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT II COS VIIII DES X P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 169 (R). BMC p. 307 note. RSC 601. BNC 42.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
Domitian was very concerned about the quality of his coinage. In 82 AD he restored the fineness of the denarius to the levels of Augustus, striking them in nearly 100% silver. This coin from 83 was produced soon after the new standard was introduced. The portrait style is somewhere between the earlier veristic style seen in the first few months of the reign and the more elaborate, idealised style the engravers employed from 84 onward. This issue is also significant because it introduces for the first time the four standard Minerva types that would dominate the reverse of the denarius until the end of the reign.
Struck in fine style on a large flan. The scrape on the cheek isn't so noticeable in hand.
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