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RIC 339 Domitian
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AR Denarius, 2.82g
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 POT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 339 (R2). BMC 80. RSC 180a. BNC 83.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
A denarius which is part of the rare fourth issue of 85. This issue is the first struck after Domitian reduced the fineness of the denarius by 5% to the old Neronian level after having raised it in 82 to the Augustan standard. Despite the reduction in fineness this is a remarkably well crafted series signified by the aegis, which only appeared in issues of special note.
A well executed portrait in fine style. Struck on an oblong flan which does not detract too much from the coin's overall appeal.
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