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RIC 078 Domitian
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Æ Sestertius, 25.82g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; S C in field; Minerva stg. l., with spear
RIC 78 (C2). BMC 261. BNC 276.
Acquired from Vilmar, December 2018. Formerly in NGC holder 4280613-006, grade 'F'.
While Domitian's initial denarius output is dominated by the carry-over pulvinar types from Titus, his first issue of sestertii have a more personal touch with the reverses featuring his patron deity Minerva. These first bronze coins were not struck in massive quantities and likely date between mid October and 31 December 81. The reverse legend indicates he is consul for the seventh time and has already been voted as consul for the eighth time beginning 1 January 82.
Superb portrait with an aged brassy appearance.
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