RIC 162 Domitian

AR Denarius, 3.48g
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; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 162 (R). BMC spec. acquired 1988. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex eBay, March 2023. Formerly in NGC holder #6330610-037, grade VF.

Struck between March and 13 September 83 AD, this denarius is part of an issue that introduced the four standard Minerva reverse types that would dominate the denarii of Domitian's reign. All the denarii from this issue are fairly rare today. This Minerva advancing right type is missing from Paris and is unlisted in RSC. The BM acquired a specimen in 1988.

Historical note: Mons Graupius, Agricola's climatic battle in Scotland, most likely occurred in the fall of 83 soon after this coin was minted.