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01 Domitian as Caesar RIC V680131 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 73 AD
RIC V680 (C), BMCRE V129, RSC 664
Obv - CAES AVG F DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - No legend; Domitian, togate, cloak flying out behind him, on horse prancing l., extending r. hand and holding vertical sceptre with human head at end, in l.
aVF
A reverse type issued only for Domitian, most likely a reference to his part in the Judaean triumph of Vespasian and Titus.
"while taking part in the Judaean triumph, he rode on a white horse, the conventional mount for young princes on such occasions." (Suetonius, Domitian, ii)
A scarce coin of Domitian's part in a very important event in Flavian history. Nice portait with some of the beard still intact and a lively horse on the reverse!Vespasian70
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02 Domitian as Caesar RIC V78864 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 74 AD
RIC V788 (C), BMCRE V156, RSC 375
Obv - CAES AVG F DOMIT COS III; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVT; Spes, draped, advancing l., holding up flower in r. hand and with l. holding up her skirt.
aVF
During Vespasian's reign, Domitian was given the honorary title PRINCEPS IVVENTVT or 'Prince of Youth', celebrated here on this denarius from 74 AD. The title is one that was often given to young princes who were marked out as chosen heirs.
Spes, the personification of hope, is seen here on the reverse advacing left, holding a budding flower. The flower is a symbol of future well being.
Domitian's coinage during Vespasian's rule was unique. While Titus followed closely the types of his father, Domitian struck out on his own. One wonders how much of an input the young prince had on his own series.
A very likeable coin with a good portrait and excellent centering.
Vespasian70
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03 Domitian as Caesar RIC V92172 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 76 AD
RIC V921 (C2), BMCRE V193, RSC 47
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, right.
Rev - COS IIII; Pegasus, standing r.
VF
The reverse copies an Augustan one and might possibly allude to Domitian's foray into poetry. (BMCRE xl)
Unlike most of the crude Domitian portraits of the time from the Rome mint, this one has a great beauty and nobility to it that few of his contemporary denarii strive to achieve. Was it a minor slight that most of the better die engravers were used for Vespasian and Titus' coins? Thankfully one slipped through to create a wonderful portrait of the young caesar.
Despite some minor flaws, this is a wonderful coin that I'm happy to add to my collection.
Vespasian70
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04 Domitian as Caesar RIC V95763 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
RIC 957 (C2), BMCRE V234, RSC 49
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS V; Horseman, helmeted, in military dress, cloak floating behind him, on horse prancing r., with r. hand thrown upwards and back
VF
Issued at a time when Domitian was aspiring to an Eastern command against the Alani, Mattingly attributes this type to that cause: The rider is Mars calling Rome to the field of battle.
Other theories suggest the rider is either Domitian or a soldier. Curtis Clay has also proposed the idea that this type may well be of a commemorative nature, since much of Vespasian's coinage are copies of past popular types.
A lovely coin in hand, the portrait was the reason this one found a home in my collection. Vespasian70
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05 Domitian as Caesar RIC V96183 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
RIC V961 (C2), BMCRE V240, RSC 51
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS V; She-wolf and twins l. : in ex., boat.
VF
The first instance of this reverse as an independent type on Roman Imperial coins. Domitian, unlike Titus, used different reverse types than his father Vespasian. The she-wolf and twins is unique to Domitan's coinage.
A wonderful coin with good metal and a pleasing portrait. The picture does not reflect this very well however.
Vespasian70
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06 Domitian as Caesar RIC-V108153 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 79 AD
RIC V1081 (C2), BMCRE V269, RSC 393
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Clasped hands holding legionary eagle set on prow
VF
The reverse represents 'Concordia Militum', harmony of the troops. Domitian quite possibly was plotting against Titus after Vespasian's death by appealing to the troops with a double donative. This coin might provide numismatic evidence of such. Suetonius states: " On the death of his father he hesitated for some time whether to offer a double largess to the soldiers, and he never had any compunction about saying that he had been left a partner in the imperial power, but that the will had been tampered with."
A nice coin with average wear and an interesting history behind it.
Vespasian70
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07 Domitian as Caesar RIC-V108438 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 79 AD
RIC V1084 (C2), BMC V265, RSC 384
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Salus, stg. r., resting on column, feeding snake out of patera
aVF
A most puzzling reverse type issued during the last months of Vespasian's reign before he died on June 24th. Perhaps a reference to Vespasian's illness and his hopeful recovery.
Worn and average with a good portrait.vespasian70
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08 Domitian as Caesar RIC-V108733 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 79 AD
RIC V1087 (C2), BMC V262, RSC 378
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Vesta, std. l., with palladium and sceptre
VF
Vesta is supposed to be holding a palladium in her right hand, but on this example the legend covers up the palladium completely. It is barely visible (if at all) under the legend. Most examples of the type clearly show it in her out-stretched hand. A note for an aureus of the type in the BM (#261) notes - 'palladium hardly visible, sceptre nearly vertical'. There is no illustration of the specimen, so I'm guessing mine is similar.
vespasian70
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08a Domitian as Caesar RIC-V108826 viewsAR Denarius
Rome Mint, 79 AD
RIC V1088 (R3), BMCRE p. 46 note, RSC 379
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Vesta std. l., with Palladium and sceptre
F+
A very rare (4th known) left facing portrait of the common Vesta and Palladium reverse. It is listed in Cohen as 379 (citing lot 784 of the de Moustier Sale of 1872) , although the new RIC states it is unverified (?). The lone example cited by RIC is in G. Mazzini's Monete imperiali romane, vol. 1. Also, Curtis Clay has a specimen, same die pair as mine. Left facing portraits of Domitian are extremely rare, especially those as Caesar.
Worn but all the major devices are visible.
Thanks to Curtis Clay for additional attribution help!David Atherton
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09 Domitian as Caesar RIC-V144536 viewsAR denarius
Ephesus mint, 71 AD
RIC V1445 (R), BMCRE V469, RSC 22
Obv - DOMITIANVS CAESAR AVG F; Bust of Domitian, cuirassed, seen from front, Medusa head on breast of cuirass, fold of cloak on left shoulder, head bare, r.
Rev - AVG and EPHE in oak wreath
aVF
Minted in 71 AD, this denarius is part of the first series ever issued for Domitian. The draped and cuirassed bust type chosen here is unusual for the Flavian era...one wonders why it was used only for Domitian and not Vespasian or Titus. The reverse is a standard type shared with Vespasian and Titus at Ephesus.
I'm not sure why it has taken me so long to obtain a Domitian as Caesar denarius from Ephesus, these are wonderful coins.
David Atherton
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09a Domitian as Caesar RIC-V149224 viewsAR Denarius
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
RIC V1492 (R), BMCRE V487, RSC 45c
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r. 'o' mint mark below neck
Rev - COS IIII across field; Eagle stg. facing on garlanded base, wings open, head r.
VF
A delightful Domitian as Caesar denarius from the rare 'o' mint. RIC speculates the mysterious mint is Ephesus based on the use of the 'o' mint mark which was also used at that mint in its last known series in 74.
This reverse type of Eagle on garlanded base is known from Rome for Vespasian and Titus. A wonderful portrait accompanies this large flan specimen.
David Atherton
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Domitian as Caesar RIC T9618 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 80 AD
RIC T96 (C), BMCRE T85, RSC 395
Obv - CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Hands clasped over aquila on prow
aVF
Struck in 80 AD under Titus, the reverse shows clasped hands over an aquila set on a prow, apparently representing "Concordia Militum" - "Harmony of the troops" (BMC II, xlii-xliii). An odd choice to be sure for anyone other than the emperor to issue. According to Suetonius - "After the death of his father, he (Domitian) hesitated for a long time whether he should offer the soldiery a double bounty and he never had any hesitation in stating that he had been left as a partner in the imperial position but that fraud had been applied to the will." (Suet., Dom., 2)
There is a COS VI of this reverse type assigned under Vespasian in both RIC and BMCRE but certainly post dates Vespasian's death.
David Atherton
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Domitian as Caesar RIC-T26660 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 80-81 AD
RIC T266 (C2), BMCRE T92, RSC 397a
Obv - CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Altar, garlanded and lighted
VF
This coin is part of the "pulvinar" series minted in 80-81 AD. The pulvinar represented here may be that of Vesta and possibly Vulcan.
Decent coin in choice metal.David Atherton
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Domitian as Caesar RIC-T26758 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 80 AD
RIC T267(C), BMCRE T88, RSC 390
Obv - CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Goat standing l., in laurel-wreath.
VF
Issued during Titus' reign, this coin's reverse depicts Amalthea, the Cretan goat which nursed the infant Jupiter. An obvious allusion to Domitian being the next in line to the throne.
A nicely centered coin in decent shape of this unusual reverse type. A welcomed addition to my growing Domitian as Caesar denarii.Vespasian70
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Domitian as Caesar RIC-T26841 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 80-81 AD
RIC T268 (C), BMCRE T86, RSC 381a
Obv - CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield
VF
Domitian, as attested in Suetonius (Dom. 4), was crazy for Minerva and made her his patron Goddess, even going so far as to keep a shrine of her in his bed chambers (Dom. 17).
The denarii of Domitian as Augustus after 82 AD become almost monolithic in the devotion to Minerva which Domitian paid to his patron Goddess. It is quite obvious he had a hand in what kind of reverse types his coins featured.
Vespasian70
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Domitian as Caesar RIC-T27195 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 80 AD
RIC T271 (C2), BMCRE T98, RSC 399a
Obv - CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Square seat, draped with cloth hanging in folds, with tassels: on it, crested Corinthian helmet
VF
Domitian as Caesar issued this denarius under Titus in 80 AD. The reverse is part of the pulvinaria series which commemorates the opening of the Colosseum in 80 AD.
Pulvinaria were sacred couches of the gods which had symbolic attributes set upon them. In this case, the Corinthian helmet and table are attributes of Minerva, the patron goddess of Domitian.
A wonderful denarius with a good portrait in a fine style.
Vespasian70
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Domitian RIC 134 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 1 (C), BMCRE pg. 298 note, RSC 553
Obv - IMP CAESAR DOMITIANVS AVG; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR P COS VII; Curule chair; above, wreath
aVF
This pulvinaria type is a carryover reverse from Titus that Domitian continued upon his accession. The only titles present here are IMP, AVG and TRP; titles he would have assumed immediately upon Titus' death, placing this coin very early in the reign. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 2056 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 20 (R2), BMCRE - , RSC -
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS VII DES VIII P P; Altar, garlanded and lighted
EF
This type is quite rare with the legend omitting TR P. Only two specimens are cited by RIC, this coin from the Hauck & Aufhauser 17 auction and another in a private collection.
The reverse type of an Altar with Flame is part of the "pulvinaria" series issued by Titus and Domitian as part of the commemorative issue for the opening games of the Colosseum. It is a carry-over reverse from Domitian as Caesar.
Toned and in excellent condition. An exquisite example of early Domitianic coinage.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 2141 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 21 (R2), BMCRE p. 299 note, RSC 58
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS VII DES VIII P P; Curule chair, wreath above
VF
This denarius was issued very early in the reign before Domitian was conferred the Pontif Maximus, hence only PONT appears on his obverse legend here.
A rare denarius with sharp details and dark toning featuring a nice early portrait. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 3136 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 31 (R2), BMC 7, RSC 59
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev - COS VII DES VIII P P; Seat, draped; above, semicircular frame decorated with three crescents
F
This is a rare "PONT" denarius minted very early in Domitian's reign. The "T" in PONT is just off flan. The "PONT" denarii were minted before Domitian completed the religious rites required to be Pontifex Maximus. Same obverse die as the BM and Paris specimens (Thank you Curtis Clay).
A coin only a collector could love. Corroded and polished (!), but still lovely, IMHO. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 3427 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 34 (R2), BMCRE -, RSC -
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG PONT; Head of domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev- COS VII DES VIII P P; Seat, draped; above, winged thunderbolt
VF
A very rare early denarius from Domitian's reign. The RIC plate coin (which this example shares dies with) is listed as R3 (unique). The reverse type, a carryover pulvinar issue of Titus is itself not rare, it's the obverse legend containing PONT which makes this a rare type. The "PONT" series were minted before Domitian obtained the full title Pontifex Maximus, presumably until the religious rites were completed which would confer the title to him. Most "PONT" denarii are listed as R2 or R3. This type can now be updated to R2.
A wonderful coin in good metal with an appealing early portrait of Domitian. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 4431 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 44 (R2), BMCRE - , RSC -
Obv - IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMIT AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Altar, garlanded and lighted
VF
An extremely rare and early denarius of Domitian. This coin was minted before Domitian became Pontifex Maximus, as shown by the obverse legend which only shows him as PONT. Presumably the official ceremonies for this elevation had not been completed when the coin was struck. Domitian, always a stickler for the correct procedures, probably insisted the correct form of his titles be struck. This coin also indicates how quickly new coins were struck for Domitian after he became emperor. Also, notice the nice mention of Vespasian in the obverse legend - DIVI VESP F, "Son of the Divine Vespasian".
The style is very typical of the early denarii of Domitian before his coinage reform the following year. Notice the veristic style with the hook nose. Later his portraits became more idealized.
Not listed in the BM nor Cohen. The new RIC cites examples at the Ashmolean and a private sale. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 6240 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 62 (C), BMCRE 13, RSC 564
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PM, Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Minerva stg. l., with Victory and sceptre; at feet, shield
VF
One of the less common Minerva reverse types minted for Domitian. Above average portrait for the issue.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 6423 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 81 AD
RIC 64 (R), BMCRE p. 301 note, RSC 573
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Seat, draped; above, semicircular frame decorated with corn ears (3)
VF
This type of the seat with a semicircular frame is strangely not a common one among the group four denarii of 81 AD. Also, the presence here of corn ears instead of three crescents is rare as well. The BMCRE note and the RSC entry cite only the crescents for this type (see my RIC 100 for an example of the crescent type). A rare coin indeed!
A pleasing portrait on an unusually well centered and struck early type. Part of the Pulvinaria series issued by Titus and Domitian.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 9436 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 82 AD
RIC 94 (R), BMCRE 32, RSC 598
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR POT COS VIII P P; Altar, garlanded and lighted
VF
A unique to Domitian pulvinar reverse type as Augustus. The altar reverse is much more commonly found as a type for Domitian as Caesar under Titus, this specimen is one of the few examples as Augustus I've seen in trade.
The coin is also part of the last issue minted in early 82 before the fineness of the precious metal coinage was increased.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC 9648 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 82 AD
RIC 96 (C), BMCRE 29, RSC 593
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR POT COS VIII P P; Dolphin coiled round anchor
VF+
This is a fairly common early "pulvinaria" reverse of Domitian which is a carry over from an issue of Titus' before his death the previous year. Most likely the reverse is part of a religious series commemorating the opening of the Colosseum. This reverse and the series it comes from would be discontinued later the same year when Domitian radically changed the coinage by introducing new types and increasing the fineness of the denarius.
A wonderful coin in hand with a few minor scrapes which don't detract from the overall eye appeal. This type is rarely seen in such fine condition.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-10038 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 82 AD
RIC 100 (C), BMCRE 27, RSC 596
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR POT COS VIII P P; Seat. draped; above, semicircular frame decorated with three crescents
aVF
This denarius is part of the first precious metal issue of 82 minted at Rome and the last before the increased fineness of the denarii later that same year. The reverse is a carry over pulvinar type from Titus' reign. This is the last time this type was minted by Domitian before the overhaul of the mint.
A decent coin in good metal.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-10218 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 82 AD
RIC 102 (C2), BMCRE 30, RSC 594
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR POT COS VIII P P; Tripod with fillets; above, dolphin
aVF
This type is part of the last issue of denarii Domitian minted in early 82 AD before the coinage reform which improved the quality and fineness of the coinage.
Better in hand than the photo suggests. A worn but respectable denarius.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-14159 viewsAR denarius
Rome Mint, 82 AD
Domitian, denarius
RIC 141 (C), BMCRE 34, RSC 610
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
aEF
This is one of the larger flans I have seen on a denarius (21mm). The 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.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-144100 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 82-83 AD
RIC 144 (R), BMCRE 52, RSC 320
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IVPPITER CONSERVATOR; Eagle stg. front on thunderbolt, wings outspread, head l.
EF
This denarius possibly commemorates Domitian's escape from Vitellian forces after hiding in the Temple of Jupiter during the last days of the Civil War of 69 AD. The coin was also part of an issue that began Domitian's refinement of the coinage.
A fabulous portrait combined with a beautiful and lively eagle on the reverse.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-14533 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 82-83 AD
RIC 145 (R), BMCRE 54, RSC 412
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - SALVS AVGVST; Salus std. l., with corn ears and poppy
VF
In 82 AD Domitian banished his a rationibus Tiberius Julius and then proceeded to increase the fineness of both the silver and gold coins to pre-Neronian standards. The portraits also became more refined, prompting C. H. V. Sutherland to remark they possessed an expression of 'critical disdain, of a kind familiar to the medalist of Louis XLV'.
This denarius dates to 82-83 AD when Domitian improved the quality of the precious metal coinage. The reverse depicts Salus holding grain ears and poppies, an attribute H. Mattingly speculated may refer to Domitian's care for Italian agriculture. The coin itself is darkly toned with hints of a rainbow patina.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-16436 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 83 AD
RIC 164 (R2), BMCRE 41, RSC 606
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - TR POT II COS VIIII DES X P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
VF+
This denarius minted between March and 13 September, 83 AD is part of a series that introduced the four main Minerva reverse types that would dominate the denarii of the reign. The type here, Minerva on rostral column (not prow as normally described), makes it debut as well.
83 saw an increased fineness of the precious metal coinage to Augustan standards, which explains this specimens size and weight - 21 mm, 3.35 grams. A bit of horn silver on the obverse does not detract from a wonderful coin in hand.
Historical note - Mons Graupius, Agricola's climatic battle in Scotland, most likely occurred in the fall of 83 soon after this coin was minted.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-26678 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 85 AD
RIC 266 (R2), BMCRE 74, RSC 361a
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG GERMANIC; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - P M TR POT IIII IMP VIII COS XI P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
VF+/VF
Minted in 85 AD, this very rare coin features a wonderful, thoughtful portrait of the "tyrant". IMHO the portraiture on his denarii reached a high point between 82 and 85 when both the fineness and quality of the denarii were vastly improved. It seems only the best engravers were working for him at this time. Ancient coin collectors should really take note of Domitian because he really did care about his coinage.
Struck on a large flan with full legends and weighing 3.35 g.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-33138 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 85 AD
RIC 331 (R2), BMCRE 82, RSC 181
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev - IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POTES P P; Germania seated r. on shield; below, broken spear
VF
In either 82 or 83 AD Domitian conducted a census of Gaul as a smoke screen in order to make preparations to invade the Germanic Chatti lands across the Rhine. Not much is known of what the actual war consisted of - perhaps some road building, punitive raids against Chatti strongholds, and some minor skirmishes. No large battles, a la Mons Graupius, have come down to us, prompting Tacitus' assertion, 'that in recent times, the Germans were more triumphed over than conquered'. Even the date of the conflict is in dispute - although Domitian did rack up four salutations between June 83 and September 84, several of which must be attributed to the Chattan Campaign.
Domitian celebrated a triumph over the Chatti in 83, after which he claimed the title 'Germanicus'. This rare denarius from 85 is a record of the war and triumph over the defeated German tribe. The coin is part of the last series of denarii minted with the recently increased silver fineness before the lesser Neronian standard was restored. During this period particular attention was paid by the die engravers to Domitian's portrait, evidenced here by the aegis and fine style. The Germania Capta reverse has become an iconic Flavian type, along with Vespasian and Titus' Judaea Capta types, despite the 'hollow' triumph it records.
A most wonderful coin in hand!David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-33267 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 85 AD
RIC 332 (R2), BMCRE 78, RSC 179a
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.,with aegis
Rev - IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
aEF
This denarius was minted in 85 AD right after Domitian slightly lowered the fineness of his denarii to Neronian standards. He had previously in 82 AD raised the standard of the denarius to the levels set by Augustus but apparently financially could not maintain those standards. The coins were still minted at a higher standard than those under Vespasian or Titus and would remain so until the end of his reign.
This coin also illustrates the high artistic standards Domitian demanded of his die engravers. The addition of the aegis along with the fine style idealistic portrait shows the care the mint took in the minting of these coins.
The surface is slightly porous and the reverse faintly double struck but the overall eye appeal I believe overcomes all that.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-33527 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 85 AD
RIC 335 (R2), BMCRE p. 315 note, RSC 178 corr.
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
VF+
This denarius is part of the first issue of 85 minted after Domitian reduced the silver fineness back to the Neronian standard. Despite the reduction in silver content, the coin has been minted on a large flan and the portrait is in a similar fine style as the previous issues with the higher silver standard.
This coin is a RIC plate coin, mislabeled as 338, pl. 124.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-34265 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 85 AD
RIC 342 (R2), BMCRE - , RSC -
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P V; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
aVF/F+
Another very rare denarius from a brief series minted in 85. Interesting to note that two silver medallions (4 and 8 denarii weight) were minted in this series. Not in London or Paris. RIC cites Berlin and the Jyrki Muona collection.
Struck on a large flan (22 mm) and toned almost a chocolate brown. The portrait is pretty stylish too. Same reverse die as the RIC plate coin.
This is a wonderful coin in hand.
Thanks to Harry Sneh for additional info.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-56859 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 568 (R2), BMCRE 139, RSC 27
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERMANIC COS XIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - CENS P P P across field; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
aEF
Minted in early 88 AD, the reverse commemorates Domitian's assumption of perpetual censor. The legend CENS P P P across field is quite rare and the series of Denarii this coin is apart of was quite short lived.
The portrait is done in a remarkably fine style and is one of the most artistically pleasing of Domitian I've ever come across. There is not a lot of wear and traces of his "mutton chop" sideburns are still visible in hand. The pleasing attributes the engraver has given Domitian here is quite commendable!
Struck on a large flan (20mm) and weighing 3.12 grams, this is one of my finest denarii of Domitian, both stylistically and fabric wise.
David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-57232 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 572 (C3), BMCRE 115, RSC 235
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XIIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva, adv. r. (M1)
VF
A common type from a common issue - however, the portrait is stylistically quite well done. Do not think for a moment this is how Domitian appeared in reality! The portraits of Domitian after the mint overhaul earlier in the reign became quite idealised. Those of 88 AD contain some of the finest examples of this style.
Well centered with plenty of eye appeal.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-59643 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 596 (C2), BMCRE 131, RSC 76/77
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC; Herald adv. l., with wand and shield
VF
This coin was minted to commemorate the Secular Games Domitian held in October of 88 AD. Here we see a herald announcing the games. This reverse is the most common type of the Secular Games series and was minted in both gold and silver.
This is a wonderful coin in hand with iridescent toning and a large flan.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-601106 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 601 (C), BMCRE 135, RSC 73
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC inscribed on column; to r., incense burner, further r., Herald stg. l., with wand and shield
VF
The type was minted in 88 AD in honor of the Secular Games Domitian held in that same year. Secular Games, or Ludi Saeculares, were theatrical games held at the end of a saeculum (the longest span of a human life, figured at 100 years). Domitian used the Augustan cycle, although he celebrated them six years early.
The reverse features a column with the inscription LVD SAEC FEC: "He Conducted the Secular Games", a herald who announced the games, and an incense burner for sacrifice. Quite a nice numismatic record of an event.
This is a type I've always wanted to add to the collection. Another reverse that pushes the limits of how much a die-cutter can fit onto such a small flan. Good metal and a decent portrait.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-60444 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 604 (C), BMCRE 137, RSC 70
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS XIIII across field; Column inscribed LVD SAEC FEC; all within laurel wreath
aVF
Minted in 88 AD to commemorate the Secular Games Domitian held in that same year, the reverse actually shows the column which the senate dedicated in honor of the games. A wonderful example of a coin illustrating a moment in history.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-66241 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
RIC 662 (R2), BMCRE - , RSC -
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XVII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
F
Already part of a rare series Domitian minted in 88/89 AD, this is even rarer with his name DOMITIANVS spelled out. It is also an obverse die match for the RIC plate coin. The seller, who is an avid Flavian collector, believes there is only one die for this obverse.
It being a detectorist find partially accounts for the horrible condition, but still the legends are legible which in this case is all important.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-67027 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
RIC 670 (C3), BMCRE 154, RSC 250
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XIX COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
aVF
This denarius records Domitian's 19th Imperial salutation, most likely awarded for a victory over the German Chatti in late 88 or early 89 (probably by March or April of 89). Typical of Domitian's denarii of this time period, the portrait is in fine style and the overall workmanship is fairly high quality.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-69199 viewsAR denarius
Rome mint, 90 AD
RIC 691 (C2), BMCRE 167, RSC 260
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XXI COS XV CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
VF
Minerva, Domitian's patron goddess, shown here in one of her four standard poses represented on his precious metal coinage.
Good example of mid period artistry, not flashy but very idealistic. David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-72117 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 90-91 AD
RIC 721 (C2), BMCRE 181, RSC 264
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P X; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XXI COS XV CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
VF
Domitian did not assume the consulship in 91, so this coin is dated by the tribunician title from mid-September 90 to mid-September 91. The basic four Minerva reverse types dominate this series.
A decent coin in fine style. Domitian's exacting high standards are in evidence here.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-74081 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 92-93 AD
RIC 740 (C3), BMCRE 202, RSC 281
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minverva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
VF+
A most typical denarius of Domitian's reign featuring one of the four common Minverva reverse types. The reverse is often mistakenly described as "Minerva on prow", although she is actually atop a rostral column (see RIC II p. 244). The fine style and all around high quality of the piece is typical of Domitian denarii owing to his great interest in the coinage.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-76193 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 93-94 AD
RIC 761 (C3), BMCRE 214, RSC 283b
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
VF
Typical of Domitian's later issues, this coin is well centered and displays a stylish portrait.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-79135 viewsAR Denarius
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
RIC 791 (C), BMCRE 237, RSC 294
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XV; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva, winged, flying l., with spear and shield
VF
This coin belongs to one of the final issues Domitian minted in the last year of his reign. It is interesting to note that this winged Minerva is a new type never before seen on his coinage. The type is common, thus it was minted in large quantities, which cannot be said of the other new types (the 'monumental' series, Maia, and warrior with spear & trophy) which were also introduced in the final year of his reign.
Mattingly observed Domitian's portraits at the time were "fine and ambitious ... with an upward lift of face, which, if it does not symbolize prayer, like the 'praying type' of Constantine, certainly suggests lofty aspirations". Those "lofty aspirations" were cut short by an assassin's knife on September 18th, 96 AD.David Atherton
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Domitian RIC-84142 viewsAR Cistophorus (3 Denarii)
Rome mint, 82 AD
RIC 841 (C), BMCRE 251, RSC 23
Obv - IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG P M COS VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - CAPIT across field, RESTIT in exergue; Temple of Capitoline Jupiter with 4 columns enclosing figures of Juno, seated Jupiter and Minverva
aVF
In 80 AD while Titus was away in Campania surveying the damage Vesuvius had caused in the region the previous Fall, a devastating fire broke out in Rome, damaging much of the city center. One of the most important buildings affected by the fire was the Temple of Capitoline Jupiter, rebuilt recently by Vespasian. It being the most sacred and important building in Rome, Titus began rebuilding it immediately. Construction was still ongoing when Titus died of natural causes in September of 81. Domitian completed the structure the following year and it was said no expense was spared. The building Domitian dedicated was a lavish structure, magnificent in appearance featuring Pentelic marble, gold plated doors, and a roof of gilded bronze.
This cistophorus minted in Rome for export to Asia Minor commemorates the new Temple of Jupiter Domitian bestowed on Rome. Curiously, although the building featured six columns, only four are seen here. Statues of the deities Juno, Jupiter (seated) and Minverva can be seen between the columns.
A most wonderful coin in hand.David Atherton
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