RIC 141 Domitian

AR Denarius, 3.70g
Rome Mint, 82 AD
Domitian, denarius
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT IMP II COS VIII DES VIIII P P; Fortuna stg. l., with rudder and cornucopiae
RIC 141 (C). BMC 34. RSC 610. BNC 35.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, January 2010. Ex Beast Coins November 2006.

With one of the larger flans I have seen on a denarius (21mm), this coin is part of the coinage reforms Domitian began in 82 AD. The denarius was increased to its Augustan weight levels and one can argue the quality of the portrait style was improved as well. Fortuna is featured on the reverse and most likely commemorates her part in Domitian's escape from Vitellian forces during the Civil War in December 69.