RIC 050 Domitian

AR Denarius, 2.82g
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; Curule chair, wreath above
RIC 50 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

A pulvinar carry-over type from Titus's reign perhaps connected to the religious ceremonies for the opening games of the Colosseum. Domitian finished the top level of seating which perhaps explains the continued striking of the pulvinar issue during his first few months as Augustus. The curule chair and wreath possibly represents the pulvinar of Divus Vespasian, honouring his labours in building the structure. Although the type itself is common, it is extremely rare with the DIVI VESP F (Son of the Divine Vespasian) obverse legend.

Good metal and fine style.