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RIC 106 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 21.73g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P; S C in field; Minerva stg. l., with spear
RIC 106 (C). BMC 276. BNC 286.
Acquired from Ken Dorney, May 2021.

Minerva's prominence on Domitian's coinage first showed up on his early bronzes produced in 81-82 before she dominated his denarii. This fantastic sestertius struck in early 82 demonstrates that the finest engravers were not just reserved for Domitian's aurei. A superb portrait and fine reverse.6 commentsDavid Atherton05/29/21 at 17:22FlaviusDomitianus: Nice example.

RIC 323 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.36g
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 CENSORIA POTESTAT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 323 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Heritage Auction 232117, 28-29 April 2021, lot 65186. Formerly in NGC holder #5749336-008, grade VF.

An extremely rare denarius from the second issue of 85, struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the silver fineness after raising it to nearly 100% in 82. This was also the first denarius issue produced after Domitian assumed the censorship (given right to conduct census), note the full spelling of the title in the reverse legend.5 commentsDavid Atherton05/24/21 at 04:26paul1888: Overall a nice coin. Very nice toning and the met...

RIC 323 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.36g
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 CENSORIA POTESTAT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 323 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Heritage Auction 232117, 28-29 April 2021, lot 65186. Formerly in NGC holder #5749336-008, grade VF.

An extremely rare denarius from the second issue of 85, struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the silver fineness after raising it to nearly 100% in 82. This was also the first denarius issue produced after Domitian assumed the censorship (given right to conduct census), note the full spelling of the title in the reverse legend.5 commentsDavid Atherton05/08/21 at 09:04FlaviusDomitianus: Great addition, congrats!

RIC 323 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.36g
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 CENSORIA POTESTAT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 323 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Heritage Auction 232117, 28-29 April 2021, lot 65186. Formerly in NGC holder #5749336-008, grade VF.

An extremely rare denarius from the second issue of 85, struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the silver fineness after raising it to nearly 100% in 82. This was also the first denarius issue produced after Domitian assumed the censorship (given right to conduct census), note the full spelling of the title in the reverse legend.5 commentsDavid Atherton05/08/21 at 06:46Parthicus Maximus: Impressive rarity!

RIC 323 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.36g
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 CENSORIA POTESTAT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 323 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Heritage Auction 232117, 28-29 April 2021, lot 65186. Formerly in NGC holder #5749336-008, grade VF.

An extremely rare denarius from the second issue of 85, struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the silver fineness after raising it to nearly 100% in 82. This was also the first denarius issue produced after Domitian assumed the censorship (given right to conduct census), note the full spelling of the title in the reverse legend.5 commentsDavid Atherton05/08/21 at 03:32Jay GT4: A lovely coin and with aegis!

RIC 564 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.25g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR DOMITIAN AVG GERMANICVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XIIII across field; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 564 (R2). BMC p. 328 *. RSC 68. BNC -.
Ex CNG E490, 21 April 2021, lot 296. From the Peter J. Merani Collection, purchased from Sam Kazmi.

This denarius is part of a short lived but remarkable issue struck in early 88. It features an extremely rare obverse legend (notice the full spelling of GERMANICVS and DOMITIAN) combined with the simple design of COS XIIII across the reverse field. Also of note, the TR P and IMP numbers are absent. Only a handful of specimens are known with RIC citing 3 examples from Berlin, Madrid, and a private collection. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. All the coins from the series are struck on large flans in fine style.2 commentsDavid Atherton05/01/21 at 07:39FlaviusDomitianus: Nicely toned example.

RIC 281 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 26.14g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XI; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in exergue; Domitian stg. r., clasping hands over altar with officer stg. l.; behind officer, one soldier with standard and one soldier at r. with spear and shield
RIC 281 (R). BMC 301. BNC 321.
Acquired from Olding, MA Shops, June 2019 = Olding, List 96, March 2019, Sammlung Fritz Reusing, no. 182. From the collection of Fritz Reusing (1874-1956), acquired from the Heynen Collection; inherited and continued by Reusing's nephew Paul Schürer (1890-1976).

In 85 Domitian struck a fairly impressive issue of sestertii, M. Grant hyperbolically called it the most 'ambitious' of any one reign or year. The series is the first major aes issue of Domitian's reign and is dominated by panoramic types commemorating his greatest military victory over the Germanic tribe the Chatti. The Germanic triumph received a certain amount of ridicule from ancient writers who thought the whole thing was a sham (Dio goes so far as to say Domitian raided the palace's furniture stores for his fake spoils!), no doubt the numismatic propaganda for the victory was likely viewed in the same manner by contemporary senatorial elites. This rare sestertius depicts a rather ambiguous scene showing Domitian, the much larger figure on the left, clasping hands with a legate over an altar while two legionaries stand by. What exactly is going on here is a mystery. Mattingly in BMCRE II believed it to be 'the taking of the sacramentum, the military oath'. Others have postulated the scene shows Domitian greeting Agricola upon his return from Britannia. The Agricola connection is highly unlikely. The type is struck for several more years, so it cannot be referring to one single 'event'. It's an intriguing scene in the context of the Germania Capta series, perhaps depicting a post victory ceremony. Whatever the meaning, the reverse strongly underscores Domitian's bond with the military.

This wonderful old cabinet toned piece is from the collection of the German portrait painter Fritz Reusing.

4 commentsDavid Atherton04/30/21 at 03:22orfew: Wow that is very nice indeed

RIC 393 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.55g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P V; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XI COS XI CENS P P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 393 (R). BMC 87. RSC 189. BNC -.
Ex Asta 91, 15-16 December 2020, lot 173.

All the denarii from Domitian's sixth issue of 85 are extremely rare. It is the first denarius issue which marks Domitian's assumption of the perpetual censorship (CENS P). Of note, both obv. and rev. legends are riddled with spacing dots, a trademark of these issues.4 commentsDavid Atherton04/28/21 at 22:13orfew: Excellent coin!

RIC 756 DomitianÆ As, 11.66g
Rome mint, 92-94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVI CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: MONETA AVGVSTI; S C in field; Moneta stg. l., with scales and cornucopiae
RIC 756 (C2). BMC 469. BNC 497.
Acquired from Marc Breitsprecher, March 2021.

This very common As features Moneta, 'mint goddess of the emperor'. H. Mattingly believes Moneta in this context can be seen as symbolising Domitian's control of the mint and as paymaster to the empire. A fitting reverse design for an emperor who cared so much for his coinage. The COS XVI bronze issue was struck sometime between 92 and 94 and cannot be more precisely dated because Domitian did not take up the consulship again until 95.
1 commentsDavid Atherton04/15/21 at 12:14Mat: Handsome addition as usual

RIC 753 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 13.28g
Rome mint, 92-94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVI CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: FORTVNAE AVGVSTI; S C in field; Fortuna stg. l., with rudder and cornucopiae
RIC 753 (C). BMC 467. BNC 495.
Acquired from Marc Breitsprecher, March 2021.

This common Fortuna type was repeatedly struck throughout Domitian's reign on his middle bronze. She also fleetingly showed up on the denarii in 82. Mattingly calls this Fortuna 'the special Fortuna that watches over the imperial office'. Suetonius writes that near the end of Domitian's reign on 1 January 96 'The Fortuna of Praeneste, which throughout the whole time he was emperor had habitually given him a happy and virtually the same answer to him whenever he entrusted the new year to her care, finally gave a most gloomy answer - and not without the mention of blood.' The COS XVI bronze issue was struck sometime between 92 and 94 and cannot be more precisely dated because Domitian did not take up the consulship again until 95.1 commentsDavid Atherton04/15/21 at 12:13Mat: Love this, great patina

RIC 087 DomitianÆ As, 11.10g
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; S C in field; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield
RIC 87 (C). BMC 268. BNC 279.
Acquired from Ken Dorney, March 2021.

A common as from Domitian's first bronze issue struck in late 81. The reverse features his patron deity Minerva in a design which would later become more familiar on his denarii. It is likely based on a cult image.1 commentsDavid Atherton04/14/21 at 11:11Jay GT4: Very nice

RIC 435 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.98g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P V; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XII COS XII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 435 (R). BMC 93. RSC 201b. BNC 97.
Ex Dionysos, eBay, April 2016.

This denarius is part of the third issue of 86. At the time Domitian was waging a war against the Dacians and the imperial salutations were being awarded at a fast pace, this coin records his 12th acclamation. The denarii from these issues tend to be in fine style and quite scarce.

Nicely centred with a noble portrait.3 commentsDavid Atherton03/28/21 at 17:41Parthicus Maximus: Very nice example, But isn't it the second iss...

RIC 824 Divus Augustus, Restored by DomitianÆ As, 10.01g
Rome or Thrace?, 80-81 AD
Obv: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER; Head of Augustus, radiate, l., star above
Rev: IMP D CAES AVG RESTITVIT; S C in field; Eagle stg. front on globe, wings spread, head r.
RIC 824 (C2). BMC 506. BNC 555.
Ex Papillon Auction 5, 6 March 2021, lot 540.

Titus and Domitian struck an extensive restoration series of bronze coins of Flavian approved past emperors and imperial family members which reproduced the original coins in their entirety. The restoration coinage was very briefly continued into the reign of Domitian after Titus's death in September 81. It is highly likely the only mint still producing the series under Domitian was an unidentified Thracian mint, although there is some stylistic ambiguity to be certain. This common As struck for Divus Augustus restores a well known posthumous type originally coined by Tiberius. Oddly, on this one die the eagle is having trouble staying on the globe!4 commentsDavid Atherton03/27/21 at 08:48FlaviusDomitianus: Nice patina

RIC 422 DomitianÆ As, 10.33g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: VICTORIAE AVGVSTI; S C in field; Victory stg. l., inscribing shield set on trophy to l., and holding palm
RIC 422 (R2). BMC 367. BNC 389.
Ex Ancient Treasures, eBay, 28 February 2021.

The senatorial mint introduced new Germania Capta reverse designs for the bronze issues in 85 AD. Among them was this Victory inscribing shield type which was struck somewhat commonly for the dupondii and sparingly for the asses. The motif was borrowed, albeit with some minor modifications, from Vespasian's coinage. This As from the third and last bronze issue of 85 is exceedingly rare, perhaps owing to the short window of time at the end of the year prior to Domitian becoming COS XII on 1 January 86.

NB: I believe this seemingly generic Victory type to be part of the Germania Capta issues because of the commemorative 'Germanic' character of the bronze issues in which it was struck. Also, the trophy design is identical to the one used on the Germania Capta sestertii. 4 commentsDavid Atherton03/27/21 at 05:28SRukke: Nice.

RIC 026 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.53g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Dolphin coiled round anchor
RIC 26 (R). BMC spec. acquired 1987. RSC 63. BNC -.
Acquired from CGB, November 2017. Ex CGB Live Auction, 1 August 2017, lot brm_440753 (unsold).

An interesting denarius from Domitian's Group 3 denarii, a carry-over type from Titus' pulvinaria series. Curiously, the reverse legend lacks a TRP date (a title Domitian was awarded upon accession), yet it is matched with an obverse legend employed later in the year. This reverse legend is more appropriate chronologically paired with the early 'PONT' obverse dies with which it also shares a link. RIC notes the chronology is not precise with these issues from 81 and they are grouped only for 'convenience'. A possible explanation for such an odd legend pairing would be the mint workers continuing to use old reverse dies with newly engraved obverses. With that in mind, it is not surprising die links between Groups 2, 3, and 4 are known. Generally, denarii with the reverse legend lacking TRP are quite scarce - all of the types in the group have a frequency rating of rare or very rare. The dolphin and anchor reverse is probably the most common one in the issue.

A pleasing 'pinched' portrait in fine metal.8 commentsDavid Atherton02/24/21 at 04:20orfew: Lovely example

RIC 111 Domitian Engraver's ErrorÆ As, 12.69g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VEP (sic) F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P; S C in field; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield
RIC 111 (C). BMC 283. BNC 291.
Acquired from Marc R. Breitsprecher, January 2021.

It wasn't often that the extremely professionally run Rome mint made mistakes during the Flavian era, especially so during Domitian's tight reign. Here we have a rare example of a blundered obverse legend on an early bronze As of Domitian struck in late 81: DIVI VEP instead of DIVI VESP. It's a common enough type, but perhaps unique featuring this engraver's error. I wonder how many were struck before the mistake was noticed?

The engraver almost redeemed himself with the fine style portrait.2 commentsDavid Atherton02/20/21 at 17:15quadrans: Nice one

RIC 784 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.28g
Rome Mint, 95-96 AD
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; Altar, with two figures of soldiers, flanked by aquilae; under each aquila on top of the altar is a seated captive
RIC 784 (R2). BMC 237B. RSC 296. BNC 212.
Ex Solidus, eBay, 13 April 2014.

The months leading up to Domitian's assassination saw the mint at Rome experimenting with many new reverse types (winged Minerva, Maia, temple reverses), breaking the monotony of the four standard Minerva types that had previously dominated the denarius. These new types are exceedingly rare however and were perhaps experimental in nature. This impressive denarius features one of the new reverse designs consisting of an altar flanked by two soldiers and two aquilae - obviously military in nature and perhaps a commemorative issue.

A typical example of the mint's late period style in good metal and nicely centred. Same dies as CGB.fr, MONNAIES 55, lot 138.4 commentsDavid Atherton02/18/21 at 22:43Jay GT4: Fantastic type

RIC 796 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 22.99g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVII CENS PER P P; Bust of Domitian, laureate, r., draped and cuirassed
Rev: S C in exergue; Triumphal arch, showing two archways, surmounted by two elephant quadrigae
RIC 796 (R2). BMC -. BNC 509.
Acquired from Romae Aeternae Numismatics, October 2020.

'He erected so many and such huge vaulted passage-ways and arches in the various regions of the city, adorned with chariots and triumphal emblems, that on one of them someone wrote in Greek: "enough!" '- Suetonius, Life of Domitian, 13.2.

Thus we begin with a pun. Some nameless wag scrawled ARCI on one of Domitian’s many arches, punning on the similarity between arcus (‘arch’) and the Greek arkei (‘enough’). Suetonius thought it clever enough to pass it along in his Life of Domitian. Domitian was a builder and he did indeed erect many arches throughout the city of Rome. This rare sestertius struck during Domitian's last year as emperor depicts one of them, but which one? The clue actually resides with another ancient author- Martial.

'Here where the dazzling temple of Fortuna Redux shines broadly, recently was till now an open space. Here Caesar stood, beautiful with the dust of northern war, pouring out purple radiance from his face. Here Rome, dressed in white and hair wreathed in laurel, greeted the leader with voice and hand. And other grand gifts testify to the merit of the place. A sacred arch standing exultant over subjected nations. Here twin chariots numbering many an elephant. Himself golden, he stands up to the immense yokes. A gate worthy of the emperor's triumphs. It is suitable to have these entrances to the city of Mars.' - Martial, 8.65.

Martial describes an arch erected by Domitian near the Temple of Fortuna Redux. The arch is topped by a pair of bigas pulled by elephants, which is exactly what the coin depicts. The coin shows a quadrifrontal arch seen from one of the corners, with two of the archways visible. Apparently it stood at a crossroads - the Via Flaminia and the Vicus Pallacinae being the prime candidates. Mary Beard in her book 'The Roman Triumph' conjectures the arch is a porta triumphalis. The triumph in question is unknown. Martial says Domitian has returned from a 'northern war', we do not know which one. It is tempting to speculate the arch was erected for one of Domitian's German triumphs, but the term 'northern war' could fit almost any of the numerous northern border conflicts that were waged in the late 80s and early 90s AD. Melanie Grunow Sobocinski plausibly speculates the arch could be connected to Domitian's January 93 triumph over the Sarmatians.

The elephant arch sestertii are extremely rare and were perhaps minted as presentation pieces, judging by their monumental nature and the fact they were part of a special issue of sestertii depicting several of Domitian's monuments (the imperial palace and Equus Maximus). Ian Carradice wrote of them 'All the coins of this special series lack reverse legends (they include only S C), and the sestertii are further distinguished by two exceptional portraits of Domitian, one with drapery representing a military cloak, and one in which the aegis reappears. The nature of the types, their style and their great rarity all suggest that these coins perhaps formed a special commemorative issue.' (Coinage and Finances in the Reign of Domitian, p. 123) The arch is long gone, but the coins still remain as a testament to Domitian's megalomania.

No specimens of the type are in the BM. The above coin is a double die match with the Paris specimen. A truly remarkable piece struck in very fine style!4 commentsDavid Atherton02/11/21 at 19:55ancientdave: Fantastic! Been after one of these myself for many...

RIC 287 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 10.62g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XI; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: ANNONA AVG; S C in exergue; Annona, std r., holding open on lap by two ends bag full of corn-ears; in front of her stands a small figure, l., also holding two ends of bag, and in the background, stern of ship
RIC 287 (R). BMC 305. BNC -.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, November 2020.

A most curious reverse type was struck for Domitian on his dupondii for a short period between 84-88. Here we see Annona seated holding open a bag(?) of corn-ears and a mysterious small figure standing before her holding the other end of the bag with a ship's stern in the background. Overall, the reverse likely alludes to Domitian's care of the corn supply, hinted at by the stern, here a symbol of the all important African grain ships. The small individual before Annona has variously been described as a 'boy', a 'child', or ambiguously as just a 'figure'. H. Mattingly has the most imaginative explanation in BMCRE II - 'Annona herself, the spirit of the corn-supply, and the ship, the symbol of the overseas corn, are familiar: but who is the small figure who stands before her? He is certainly no child, but only a man reduced to tiny proportions beside the goddess; and the fact that he is bare to the waist may suggest that he is an Italian farmer. If this interpretation is right, the type records a definite policy of Domitian to encourage the growing of corn in Italy.' Mattingly may be correct about the overall meaning, but I think the figure is indeed a child, symbolic of the emperor's care, through Annona's auspices, for his subjects. Rare variant with aegis.

3 commentsDavid Atherton02/11/21 at 19:35ancientdave: Excellent!

RIC 840 DomitianÆ As, 9.44g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 82 AD
Obv: IMP D CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l. with corn ears and torch
RIC 840 (R2). BMC 520. BNC 553. RPC 533.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, January 2021.

An Eastern mystery mint struck imperial bronze coins for Titus and Domitian between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region prompted a localised imperial issue which consists of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses copying types struck at Rome. The mystery mint continued production uninterrupted for Domitian as Augustus after Titus's death in September 81 for perhaps a few months with little change in types. This Ceres type is dated by COS VIII to 82, perhaps within just the first few weeks judging by its rarity.

Fine 'eastern' style.2 commentsDavid Atherton01/16/21 at 05:05Jay GT4: Very cool

RIC 658 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
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 advancing right, brandishing spear, on capital of rostral column, accompanied by owl (M2)
RIC 658 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, December 2020.

Domitian did not take up the consulship in 89, therefore, this denarius is dated by TR P VIII between September 88 and September 89. The date can be further narrowed down by the 17th imperial acclamation. A military diploma dated 7 November, 88 records Domitian as IMP XVII, so this issue must have been struck briefly at the end of 88, perhaps just a month or so due to the rarity of the acclamation number on the denarii and the fact they were being awarded at a fairly rapid pace due to increased military activity along the Danube. This is an extremely rare variant with 'DOMITIANVS' fully spelled out. Normally the denarius obverse legends use the abbreviated 'DOMIT'. The variant spelling is known for 3 of the 4 Minerva types from this issue, only the Minerva advancing right (M1) is missing.1 commentsDavid Atherton01/09/21 at 08:18FlaviusDomitianus: Nice catch!

RIC 316 DomitianÆ Quadrans, 3.07g
Rome Mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI; Bust of Ceres, wearing wreath of corn ears, draped, l.
Rev: S C in field; Basket with corn ears
RIC 316 (C). BMC -. BNC 347.
Acquired from CGB.fr, December 2020.

Small bronzes such as the quadrans were likely used in minor transactions by the plebs and sported very simple designs with popular motifs, often lacking an imperial portrait. Ceres briefly appeared on the obverse of Domitian's quadrantes in 85-86. She frequently was paired with an appropriate reverse design, such as a basket of corn ears as seen on this example. Some seller's erroneously refer to the obverse as Domitia. Incredibly, this bust left variant is missing from the extensive BM collection.1 commentsDavid Atherton12/31/20 at 03:54Jay GT4: Very cool

RIC 833 Domitian (2)Æ Dupondius, 12.04g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 81 AD
Obv: IMP D CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VII; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 833 (R). BMC 514. BNC 549. RPC 528.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, November 2020.

An Eastern mystery mint struck imperial bronze coins for Titus and Domitian between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region prompted a localised imperial issue which consists of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses copying types struck at Rome. The mystery mint continued production uninterrupted for Domitian as Augustus after Titus's death in September 81 for perhaps a few months with little change in types. This Roma dupondius is a carry-over type from Titus's issue with only slight changes to the obverse legend to fit Domitian's nomenclature. It's the only reverse type struck for the dupondius in the series for both Titus and Domitian. These Domitianic 'Thracian' bronzes are much rarer than those coined under Titus, very likely because of the issue's short production period under Domitian.1 commentsDavid Atherton12/12/20 at 13:30Jay GT4: Good find

RIC 355 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 25.18g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in field; Domitian stg. l., sacrificing with patera over altar in front of shrine containing cult statue of Minerva
RIC 355 (C). BMC 336. BNC 356.
Acquired from Castellet Classical Numismatics, December 2020.

85 AD saw the mint at Rome introduce many new types on Domitian's aes coinage. This sestertius from the second issue of the year shows Domitian sacrificing in front of a small shrine. Mattingly in BMCRE (p. xciii) had this to say concerning the type - 'Minerva is not represented here by her own types, as on the gold and silver, but by a type that recurs year after year of Domitian sacrificing before the goddess in a shrine. While recording his achievements, Domitian does not omit to acknowledge the goddess to whom they are due.' The nod here to Minerva is quite pious. The shrine in question is a mystery and may perhaps just be a generic design to frame the cult image.

Dark milk chocolate toning and fine style.1 commentsDavid Atherton12/09/20 at 13:44FlaviusDomitianus: Excellent portrait.

RIC 247 DomitianÆ Quadrans, 2.48g
Rome Mint, 84-85 AD
Obv: IMP DOMIT AVG GERM; Trophy
Rev: S C in field; Olive branch
RIC 247 (R). BMC 494. BNC 534.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, November 2020.

Domitian struck a fairly large issue of undated quadrantes early in his reign. RIC places them within the 84-85 time period based on Domitian titled as 'Germanicus' ('GERM' - which could only be post 83) and before 85 (after which all these small issues were dated). RIC also speculates many of these quadrantes were struck 'al marco', i.e. by batch weight, because of the variable weights encountered on many specimens. This type featuring a trophy on the obverse is an obvious reference to the recent war with the Germanic Chatti and should be considered part of the 'Germania Capta' series.3 commentsDavid Atherton11/23/20 at 19:40Jay GT4: Nice!

RIC 606 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 28.36g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XIIII LVD SAEC A POP; FRVG AC on platform; S C in exergue; Domitian std. r. on platfrom, approached by two or three citizens with open sacks; in background, four column temple
RIC 606 (C). BMC 419. BNC 457.
Acquired from CGB.fr, November 2020.

In October 88 AD Domitian held the Secular Games, a festival featuring theatrical performances and circus games accompanied by six various daytime and nighttime religious ceremonies. The games marked the transition from one era (saeculum) to another and were supposedly held once every 110 years, or the maximum span of a human lifetime, making them a 'once in a lifetime' event. Domitian conducted his games on the Augustan calculation, rejecting the formula for the Claudian games held in 47 AD. The festival was important enough to interrupt the normal striking of reverse types on the coinage and for the mint to produce a new unique issue commemorating the event both in precious metal and bronze. The precious metal designs tended to be symbolic while the bronze were more narrative in nature, focusing on the various religious sacrifices that were at the heart of the games.

This coin's reverse depicts the acceptance of wheat, beans, and oats (poured on ground) from a group of citizens by Domitian in front of a tetrastyle temple. According to Melanie Grunow Sobocinski* the meaning of this Ludi Saeculare ceremony is fairly clear - 'The festival began with nearly a week of preparatory events. First, the citizens brought gifts of agricultural produce (fruges) to various temples. On the following days, they received materials for the ritual purification of private homes (suffimenta) from the priesthood in charge of organizing the Ludi Saeculares ... According to the Augustan acta and Zosimus, the distribution of the suffimenta took place simultaneously at three locations, and the collection of the fruges at four locations. As a result, no firm identification of the temples can be reached without further evidence' Although, she later concedes - 'Scholars interested primarily in architectural form have identified some or even all of the other hexastyle and tetrastyle temple images as representations of the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus. This interpretation is plausible for the suffimenta and fruges coin types because the Temple of Jupiter was one of several sites for these two ceremonies.'

Worn, but with the major devices still visible.

* 'Visualizing Ceremony: The Design and Audience of the Ludi Saeculares Coinage of Domitian', AJA Vol. 110, No. 4 (Oct 2006)2 commentsDavid Atherton11/10/20 at 14:34FlaviusDomitianus: Nice find, different reverse die than mine.

RIC 224 DomitianÆ As, 9.54g
Rome mint, 84 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS X; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: SALVTI AVGVSTI; S C in exergue; Altar
RIC 224 (C2). BMC 291. BNC 309.
Acquired from eBay, September 2020. Formerly in NGC holder #4285243-015, with grade Ch F.

The SALVTI AVGVSTI altar type was first introduced on Domitian's aes coinage in 84 after a brief hiatus of the Senatorial mint's production in 82-83, presumably for re-organisational purposes. This earliest version of the type has the legend starting at the lower left, later issues would place the legend above and below the altar. The structure on the reverse has been traditionally described as an altar, however, Marvin Tameanko has convincingly argued it is actually a sacellum, or small shrine. He states the steps at the base leading to two doors with handles are overwhelming evidence that the structure was much larger than an altar. As far as the shrine's significance - H. Mattingly in BMCRE II interprets the type as commemorating the Senate's dedication of an altar shrine celebrating Domitian's safe return from the Germanic Wars of 82-83. Alternately, the shrine may have been dedicated as an appeal to Salus for the emperor's continued good health. Tameanko attributed the reverse to Domitian's hypochondria. In any case, no trace of the shrine has survived antiquity.

Fine style and good metal.2 commentsDavid Atherton10/07/20 at 18:13okidoki: very nice reverse

RIC 655 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.27g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P ; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 655 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Andrew Short Collection, acquired from Chris Rudd 2019.

An extremely rare IMP XVI Domitian denarius struck fleetingly in the autumn of 88, perhaps for just a few days or weeks judging by the rarity. The rapid accumulation of imperial acclamations during this time period hints at accelerated military activity. Missing from the BM and Paris collections. This coin is a detectorist find from Methwold, Norfolk, UK.

Fine portrait, polished surfaces.2 commentsDavid Atherton09/07/20 at 02:05Jay GT4: Wonderful gift

RIC 041 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.23g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Altar, garlanded and lighted
RIC 41 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection, July 2020.

An early rare 'PONT' denarius struck towards the end of 81. The abbreviation 'PONT' for Ponitfex Maximus must have come early in the sequence of titles Domitian employed on his denarii and likely was short lived if its rarity is any indication. The records of the Arval brothers do not show Domitian as Pontifex Maximus by 30 October, so presumably he acquired the title in either November or December. Some have argued that PONT is the same as PM, I disagree. Titus as Caesar early on had also used the title PONT on his denarii and he was never Pontifex Maximus under Vespasian - only the emperor can be Pontifex Maximus or greatest priest.1 commentsDavid Atherton08/23/20 at 16:22Jay GT4: Good eye to catch the PONT

RIC 023 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.13g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Curule chair, wreath above
RIC 23 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, July 2020.

An extremely rare Domitian First issue group 3 PONT denarius. RIC lists the frequency as R3 (unique), but apparently this is the third known example (one is cited by RIC from the Sotin Hoard and another is in the Forvm member's galleries). Notably, the unusual reverse legend lacks the standard TR P (an omission?). This early denarius was struck before Domitian became Pontifex Maximus and the completion of the necessary religious rites. These First issue coins were struck with rapidly changing titular titles (as Domitian racked them up) and were likely intended for legionary donatives.

Fine style and good metal.1 commentsDavid Atherton08/23/20 at 16:22Jay GT4: Great rarity!

RIC 544 DomitianÆ As, 11.52g
Rome mint, 87 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XIII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: FORTVNAE AVGVSTI; S C in field; Fortuna stg. l., with rudder and cornucopiae
RIC 544 (C3). BMC 401. BNC 431.
Acquired from Witter Coins, eBay, July 2020.

Fortuna was a very popular reverse type on Domitian's coinage. She featured on the his first denarii struck after the coinage reform of 82 and would later become a regular type on the bronzes. This common As from 87 shows Fortuna with her familiar attributes of a rudder, with which she steers the world, and a cornucopiae representing the rich bounty she brings. Domitian must have felt some sort of special obligation to Fortuna and repaid it by featuring her cult image on his coinage.

This coin is struck in fine 'Flavian baroque' style, similar to the contemporary denarii.2 commentsDavid Atherton08/21/20 at 13:38okidoki: very nice bust

RIC 236 DomitianÆ Quadrans, 2.47g
Rome Mint, 84-85 AD
Obv: IMP DOMIT AVG GERM; Minerva bust, helmeted, r., draped
Rev: S C in laurel wreath
RIC 236 (R). BMC 484. BNC 520.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, July 2020.

An undated issue of small bronzes were struck early in Domitian's reign. RIC places them within the 84-85 time period based on Domitian titled as 'Germanicus' (which could only be post 83) and before 85 (after which all these small issues were dated). RIC also speculates many of these quadrantes were struck 'al marco', i.e. by batch weight, because of the variable weights encountered on many specimens. Minerva features prominently on the obverse of this quadrans with a draped bust, which is a fairly uncommon variant.

Fetching dark green patina and well centred.1 commentsDavid Atherton07/22/20 at 03:05Jay GT4: Nice!

RIC 794 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 25.13g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IOVI VICTORI; S C in exergue; Jupiter std. l., with Victory and sceptre
RIC 794 (C). BMC 474. BNC 504.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, July 2020.

A common seated Jupiter type from Domitian's last bronze issue. Just like the silver and gold, Domitian's aes coinage from the mid 80s onwards settled down to a few predicable reverse types. The Sestertii were dominated by Victory crowning the emperor and the seated Jupiter with Victory. 'Jupiter the giver of Victory' was not only an important propaganda type but also one that was closely associated with Domitian. This sestertius is imprecisely dated between 95-96 because Domitian did not take up the consulship in 96. The style is very similar to the contemporaneous denarius issues.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/22/20 at 03:05Jay GT4: Really like this type

RIC 647 DomitianÆ As, 11.04g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XIIII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: FIDEI PVBLICAE; S C in field; Fides stg. r., with corn ears and plate of fruits
RIC 647 (R). BMC -. BNC 451.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, June 2020.

Fides holding a plate of fruits was a recurring type under Domitian until 88. This fairly rare Fides Publica dated COS XIIII was the last appearance of it under Domitian. It copies a similar reverse struck for Vespasian and must have held some special meaning to Domitian. H Mattingly in BMCRE II (p. xci) speculated on the importance of Fides to Domitian: 'The word "Fides" has a wide scope and includes the ideas that we express by the words "loyalty", "integrity", "honour". Probably "credit", in a wide sense, is the nearest English equivalent. If, as seems probable, the type is closely associated with the Emperor's activities as censor, we can at once understand its popularity under Domitian. The censorship of Domitian is usually represented as a device to secure control of the composition of the senate. But this was only part of its significance. Domitian was simply carrying on from his father Vespasian the policy of close attention to the business affairs of the state and, in making himself censor for life, he was offending susceptibilities rather than serious interests. In view of the care of Domitian for the Italian land we can perhaps explain the "agricultural" attributes of "Fides". It appears certain that the Flavians developed a financial policy of great importance, of which only the barest hints have come down to us. The fact that a festival of Fides fell on the first day of October, the month which was rechristened "Domitianus" in A.D. 84, lends further appropriateness to the type.'

Missing from the BM's extensive collection.1 commentsDavid Atherton07/14/20 at 21:38Jay GT4: Very nice, I like the portrait

RIC 497 DomitianÆ As, 9.41g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in field; Victory flying l., with shield inscribed SPQR
RIC 497 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, July 2020.

This Victory reverse was copied from Nero by Vespasian and briefly struck for Domitian in 85-86. It likely was part of Domitian's large bronze issue commemorating his recent victory over the Chatti. This is the final appearance of the type under Domitian, which lends credence to the theory it specifically refers to the Germanic War. Extremely rare and missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Fine style and fetching patina.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/14/20 at 21:09FlaviusDomitianus: Nice one

RIC 037 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.96g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Tripod with fillets; above, dolphin
RIC 37 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

An early rare 'PONT' denarius struck from Domitian's 3rd denarius issue of 81. The abbreviation 'PONT' for Ponitfex Maximus must have come early in the sequence of titles Domitian employed on his denarii and likely was short lived if its rarity is any indication. The records of the Arval brothers do not show Domitian as Pontifex Maximus by 30 October, so presumably he acquired the title in either November or December. The tripod and dolphin reverse is a carry-over pulvinaria type struck originally for Titus and perhaps connected to the religious ceremonies for the opening games of the Colosseum. Domitian finished the structure early in his reign which perhaps explains the continued striking of the pulvinar issue.

Some bumps and scrapes common to detectorist finds.4 commentsDavid Atherton06/04/20 at 21:00Nemonater: Nice!

RIC 060 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.19g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Minerva stg. l., with Victory and spear; at feet, shield
RIC 60 (R2). BMC p. 299 note. RSC 565. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

A rare Group 4 'PONT' denarius depicting a cult image of Minerva holding Victory. This Minerva/Victory type was only struck within the first year of Domitian's accession and would not become one of the standard Minerva types repeated throughout the reign. The religious ceremonies required for Domitian to assume the title Pontifex Maximus had not yet finished by the time this denarius was produced. Here he is simply PONT, or in other words a member of the College of Pontiffs. Some have argued that PONT is the same as PM, I disagree. Titus as Caesar early on had also used the title PONT on his denarii and he was never Pontifex Maximus under Vespasian - only the emperor can be Pontifex Maximus or greatest priest.

RIC cites one example in the ANS collection, the BM cites Cohen 565. Missing from the Paris collection.

Nicely centred.3 commentsDavid Atherton06/04/20 at 20:58Nemonater: Awesome!

RIC 050 DomitianAR 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.
4 commentsDavid Atherton06/04/20 at 20:57Nemonater: Nice catch!

RIC 592 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.02g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XV COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear amd shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 592 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, May 2020. Formerly in ANACS holder 6241625, grade F 15, Damaged.

On 1 January 88 Domitian still held his 14th imperial acclamation, but soon he was to rack up three more by the year's end. This denarius is dated by his 15th imperial acclamation, presumably from a Dacian campaign battle, awarded sometime in late summer just before the new title TR P VIII is recorded on the coinage in mid September. The issue from which this coin was struck is quite rare, indicating a very small period of time it could have been struck, perhaps just a few weeks. Missing from the BM and Paris collections. RIC cites one in Madrid and another in a private collection.

Damaged, but nicely toned.
1 commentsDavid Atherton05/23/20 at 12:35FlaviusDomitianus: Nice rarity

RIC 357 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 23.80g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in field; Domitian stg. l., with spear; to l., German captive, kneeling r., presenting shield
RIC 357 (C). BMC 337. BNC 358.
Acquired from Ampex, eBay, April 2020.

In 85 AD Domitian's moneyers struck an impressive issue of sestertii, M. Grant hyperbolically called it the most 'ambitious' of any one reign or year. The series is the first major aes issue of Domitian's reign and is dominated by panoramic types commemorating his military victory over the Germanic tribe the Chatti. The details of the war are unclear, but the overall impression is that the conflict was a minor affair blown out of proportion by an emperor eager for military glory. Although this coin with a heroic Domitian standing over a defeated captive lacks a reverse inscription, the image is powerful enough to convey the propaganda message of power and might combined with clemency without one. The iconography of a large all powerful ruler lording over a smaller foe is a familiar one in the ancient world. The type is fairly common and was struck into early 86 with the addition of a broken spear in the exergue.

Well centred in good metal.3 commentsDavid Atherton05/08/20 at 14:48quadrans: Interesting piece..

RIC 517 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.30g
Rome mint, 87 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XIII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 517 (C). BMC 111. RSC 228. BNC 110.
Acquired from Historiche Münzen & Medaillen, December 2016.

From the Second issue of 87, struck between 14 September and 31 December.

Struck on a large flan in beautiful 'Flavian Baroque' style. One of the finest portraits of Domitian in my collection.6 commentsDavid Atherton04/23/20 at 15:49Parthicus Maximus: Super style!

RIC 108 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 13.37g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P; S C in field; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side
RIC 108 (C2). BMC 278. BNC 288.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, March 2020.

Minerva was a popular type on Domitian's early bronze. This variant struck in 82 showing Minerva with thunderbolt and shield would later become one of the standard types for the denarius the following year. It is likely based on a cult image of the goddess.

A handsome coin in fine style.3 commentsDavid Atherton04/03/20 at 22:32SRukke: Great portrait.

RIC 351 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 25.24g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, r., with aegis
Rev: GERMANIA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Trophy; to r., German captive stg. r., hands bound, head l.; to l., Germania std. l.; around arms
RIC 351 (C). BMC 325. BNC 350.
Ex Agora 96, 10 March 2020, lot 349. Ex CNG E458, 18 December 2019, lot 349. Ex Gorny & Mosch 261, 4 March 2018, lot 700. Ex Shlomo Moussaieff Collection. Formerly in NGC holder #4934009-008, with grade VF, strike 5/5, surface 2/5.

In 85 Domitian struck a fairly impressive issue of sestertii, M. Grant hyperbolically called it the most 'ambitious' of any one reign or year. The series is the first major aes issue of Domitian's reign and is dominated by panoramic types commemorating his military victory over the Germanic tribe the Chatti. The details of the war are unclear, but the overall impression is that the conflict was a minor affair blown out of proportion by an emperor eager for military glory. 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'. Consequently, Domitian's Germanic triumph of 83 received a certain amount of ridicule from ancient writers who thought the whole thing was a sham (Dio goes so far as to say Domitian raided the palace's furniture stores for his fake spoils!), no doubt the numismatic propaganda for the victory was likely viewed in the same manner by contemporary senatorial elites. Germania Capta types were first struck in silver in 84 and in bronze in 85. This iconic Germania Capta sestertius strongly echoes Vespasian's Judaea Capta types - but instead of a palm tree we see a trophy which appears to be mounted on a palm trunk(?). H. Mattingly writes in BMCRE 'the type is closely modelled on the Judaea Capta of Vespasian, but the German element is indicated by the heavy angular cloak worn by the man and by the oblong shields.' Comparing the two triumphs, the Josephian scholar Steve Mason remarked - 'The same people who produced Flavian Triumph I: Judaea were on hand for Flavian Triumph II: Germania, and sequels are rarely as good as the originals.'

The Germania Capta commemorative sestertii were produced for only a few short years between 85-88. The present example from the second issue of 85 is probably the most common variant of the type struck just before Domitian was awarded the perpetual censorship.

Fine style and nicely toned.2 commentsDavid Atherton03/20/20 at 06:27Parthicus Maximus: Nice!

RIC 495 DomitianÆ As, 9.67g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in field; Crossed pairs of shields, spears, and trumpets over vexillum
RIC 495 (C). BMC 392A. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, February 2020. Ex Beast Coins.

In 85 AD Domitian's senatorial bronze mint began striking a series of Germania Capta types with various reverse designs to commemorate his recent victory over the Germanic Chatti. On the middle bronze there appears a type with crossed decorated shields and spears (captured Germanic arms) and trumpets(?) overlaid on a vexillum. Curiously, the 'trumpets' appear to look more like carynxes but are described in most of the literature concerning the type as simply (Roman?) trumpets. It would make sense if the trumpets in question were captured Germanic booty along with the spears and shields, perhaps the above coin bears that out. Curiously, for such a common type, it is missing from the Paris collection.

Fine style a beautiful patina.6 commentsDavid Atherton03/14/20 at 18:13kc: Good example for this scarce type

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