| Last additions - 3. The Reign of Domitian - Imperial Coins |
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.David AthertonMay 31, 2020
|
|
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.
David AthertonMay 23, 2020
|
|
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.David AthertonMay 08, 2020
|
|
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.David AthertonApr 01, 2020
|
|
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.David AthertonMar 19, 2020
|
|
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.David AthertonMar 13, 2020
|
|
RIC 552 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.16g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XIIII across field; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 552 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Germania Inferior Numismatics, February 2020. Ex Spink 20120, 13 February 2020, lot 228 (part), The Michael Kelly Collection.
In 88 AD Domitian struck a brief special issue of Minerva denarii with abbreviated legends and austere reverse designs. The reverses feature a shortened legend across field (here just the COS date) instead of the usual full legend begging from the lower left. All the coins from the issue are quite scarce, likely owing to the brief time span in which they were produced. RIC cites one lone example from Berlin. Perhaps the issue was struck in conjunction with a special event that year (the Secular Games?) and are commemorative in nature. Regardless, the mint soon returned the denarius to its conventional Minerva arrangement, hinting that these scarce issues were indeed struck for a special occasion.
Fine style and well centred.David AthertonMar 10, 2020
|
|
RIC 336 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.42g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 336 (R2). BMC 79. RSC 178 (no aegis). BNC -.
Acquired from Etsy, February 2020. Ex CNG 440, 20 March 2019, lot 721 (part).
In 82 Domitian increased the silver fineness of the denarius to nearly 100% purity. Three years later in mid 85 the fineness was again adjusted, this time downward to c. 90%, presumably for monetary or fiscal reasons. Domitian also assumed the powers of censor in April of 85 which was recorded on the coinage. The title was successively contracted in three issues - CENSORIA POTESTAT, CENS POTES, and CENS POT. According to metal analyses by Walker and more recently confirmed by Butcher and Ponting, Domitian's second coinage reform took place between the last two issues - the CENS POT issue being the first under the new standard. All of these denarii from the fourth issue of 85 are extremely scarce and were struck with both an aegis and non aegis portrait. The aegis portraits are somewhat more desirable.
Good metal and neat style.David AthertonMar 04, 2020
|
|
RIC 468 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 22.60g
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; Domitian standing l., with parazonium and spear; to l., river-god (Rhenus) reclining
RIC 468 (C). BMC 377. BNC 399.
Ex eBay, 9 February 2020. Ex Künker, eLive Auction 57, 12 December 2019, lot 97.
In late 82 or early 83 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 minor skirmishing. No large battles, Ã 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'.
Beginning 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. One of the more interesting types carried over into 86 features a triumphant Domitian standing over the reclining river-god Rhenus. It is a more poetic type than those showing captives or war trophies, although, even here Domitian is resting his foot on the river-god's knee symbolising Rome's domination over Germania.
Fine style and good metal.David AthertonFeb 20, 2020
|
|
RIC 706 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 10.34g
Rome mint, 90-91 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI; S C in field; Virtus stg. r., foot on helmet, with spear and parazonium
RIC 706 (C2). BMC 446. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, February 2020.
The Virtus type was struck repeatedly on Domitian's middle bronze from 84 onwards. I. Carradice in his 1983 monograph on Domitian's coinage says the following concerning the type - 'Virtus is a military type, symbolic of the courage of Domitian and the mutual devotion between the army and emperor.' Virtus first appears on the coinage in the flurry of Germania Capta types that were struck soon after Domitian's German triumph. She is impressively depicted in traditional Amazon attire. This Virtus dupondius is fairly common but is oddly missing from the Paris collection.
Well struck and in good condition.David AthertonFeb 13, 2020
|
|
RIC 760 Diva Julia Titi [Domitian]Æ Sestertius, 24.33g
Rome mint, 92-94 AD
Obv: DIVAE IVLIAE AVG DIVI TITI F above; S P Q R in exergue; Carpentum drawn r. by two mules
Rev: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVI CENS PER P P; S C, large, in centre
RIC 760 (R). BMC 471. BNC 502.
Acquired from Ken Dorney, January 2020. Ex Agora Auctions Sale 84, 4 September 2019, lot 187. Ex CNG E314, 6 November 2013, lot 364.
Titus' daughter Julia Titi was granted the title Augusta sometime in 80 or 81 during his reign. After Titus' death she lived with her uncle Domitian at the imperial residence. In 90 or 91 AD she died and was deified by Domitian, this was commemorated on the coinage. The ancient sources are quick to malign her reputation in the name of smearing Domitian. It is said she had an ongoing affair with Domitian and became pregnant. She then was forced by Domitian to abort the baby and died during the attempted abortion sometime in 90 or 91. The Flavian historian Brian Jones has called the supposed affair between Domitian and his niece Julia (some ten or eleven years his junior) and the subsequent forced abortion which killed her as "implausible" and "nonsense". Further he wrote "Scholars seem not to have stressed one of the most significant factors in assessing the rumour's accuracy - Martial's epigram 6.3, written not long after Julia's death and deification. In it, he expresses the hope that Domitian will produce a son, implies that the baby's name will be Julius (6.3.1) and states that (the now deified) Julia will be able to watch over him (6.3.5). Martial was neither a hero or a fool. Had there been the slightest hint of an affair between emperor and niece, he would hardly have written those lines; had Julia's recent death been caused by an abortion forced on her by Domitian, would Martial have so far neglected the bounds of 'safe criticism' and common sense as to humiliate Domitia publicly, urging her to become pregnant, to give the child a name reminiscent of her husband's mistress and finally to remember that same mistress, now dead and deified (thanks to her husband), would be able to protect the child?" No doubt, the Diva coins testify that Domitian felt great affection towards his niece, however, there is no evidence that they had an illicit love affair. The incestuous rumour was spread after Domitian's death.
This sestertius struck for Diva Julia Titi between 92 and 94 copies an early carpentum and mules type struck under Tiberius for Diva Livia and another under Titus struck for her grandmother Domitilla. It is the second issue of this type struck under Domitian and is slightly rarer than the earlier one produced in 90-91. In the early empire the carpentum was granted to ladies of the imperial house by the Senate as an imperial honour. It was frequently used to convey an image of the deceased Divae and to symbolise the event on the coinage. The style of the Diva Julia Titi sestertii are so similar to those of the earlier Memoriae Domitilla sestertii that the RIC authors speculate a few of the older Domitilla dies were recut for Julia's issues (p. 317, note). It's astonishing to think that the mint still had access to dies that were nearly a decade old and were able to re-use them for a new issue!
Dark brassy tone with some minor pitting.David AthertonJan 17, 2020
|
|
RIC 703 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 25.05g
Rome mint, 90-91 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in exergue; Domitian stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, crowned by Victory, stg. l.
RIC 703 (C). BMC 443. BNC 477.
Acquired from iNumis, December 2019.
In 85 AD Domitian rolled out a new set of reverse designs for the bronze coinage, most of which would be repeatedly struck over the next decade. The Victory crowning Domitian was a particular favourite for the sestertius. It copies a similar type struck for Vespasian's aurei with one key difference - throwing modesty aside, Domitian is holding Jupiter's thunderbolt, an unprecedented divine attribute for a living emperor 'which has no doubt been given to him by his patroness Minerva' (BMCRE p. xciv). It brings to mind Suetonius' anecdotes concerning Domitian's megalomania of wishing to be addressed as 'Lord and God' and having statues of himself erected only in gold or silver, itself a divine attribute (Dom. 13.2). The Flavian historian Brian Jones speculated 'Domitian was both intelligent and committed to the traditional religion. He obviously knew that he was not a God, and, whilst he did not ask or demand to be addressed as one, he did not actively discourage the few flatterers who did' (Jones 1992). This coin's reverse seems to contradict Jones' generous explanation. It shows a concious decision to depict the emperor in a divine light. It's a decision that could only have come from the top. Perhaps Jones is correct and Domitian did not directly order people to address him as 'Lord and God', however, the numismatic evidence at the very least shows that he was very open to it. Mattingly in BMCRE sums up Domitian's coinage thus - 'The one ugly feature is the vanity that leads Domitian to take over for himself a divine attribute - the thunderbolt' (p. xcv).
This example from 90-91 is likely a generic Victory type perhaps celebrating the recent double triumph over the Chatti and the Dacians in late 89. A fairly large number of the type were struck for the COS XV issue. Because Domitian did not renew the consulship in 91, these COS XV sestertii cannot be precisely dated and were likely struck for an extended period of time.
A gorgeous coin in fine style, struck on a large flan.
NB: RIC cites Paris 447, it is actually 477.David AthertonJan 10, 2020
|
|
RIC 167 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.05g
Rome mint, 83 AD
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. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 167 (R). BMC 43. RSC 604. BNC 40.
Ex AMCC Auction 2, 9 November 2019, lot 147.
In 82 Domitian reformed the coinage by raising the weight of the gold, refining the silver, and improving the over all quality. 83 was also a landmark year for his coinage - it was the first year that the all four standard Minerva types were struck together, serving as a blueprint for the remainder of the reign for the precious metal issues. This 'type 3' Minerva denarius is from that rare first Minerva issue.
A bit rough, but in fine style on a large flan.David AthertonNov 24, 2019
|
|
RIC 021 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.87g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Curule chair, wreath above
RIC 21 (R2). BMC p. 299 note. RSC 58. BNC -.
Ex Andrew Short Collection.
This denarius was issued very early in Domitian's reign, perhaps just prior to him being elected Pontif Maximus, hence the abbreviation PONT in the obverse legend.
Worn, but with a fine style portrait.David AthertonNov 02, 2019
|
|
RIC 788 Domitian VariantAR Denarius, 3.10g
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; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield (M2, missing owl)
RIC 788 var. (owl on prow). BMC 231 var. (same). RSC 293 var. (same). BNC 207 var. (same).
Ex Private Collection.
An unusual example of the standard Minerva on capital of rostral column lacking the owl, which should be at her feet to the right. Not long after this coin was struck Domitian fell victim to a palace plot. I wonder if Domiitan had seen this coin would he have taken it as an ill omen?
Good late style.David AthertonOct 24, 2019
|
|
RIC 295 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 13.50g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XI; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: S C in field; Trophy; to l., German captive std. l.; to r., Germania std. r.
RIC 295 (C). BMC 310. BNC 332.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2019. Ex Edgar L. Owen.
A 'Germania Capta' dupondius struck during Domitian's first issue of 85, the first bronze issue that fully celebrated the German victory. The war with the German tribe the Chatti likely took place in either 82 or 83. Domitian acquired the title 'Germanicus' in 83, the year of his German triumph. Why it took so long for these achievements to be commemorated on the bronze coinage is a mystery. Perhaps the bronze mint was not in full operation until 85? The motif of the reverse design closely follows the 'Judaea Capta' types of Vespasian (who in turn copied it from well known republican types). The trunk of the trophy even resembles a palm. The 'Germania Capta' types would be struck for only a few short years between 85-88.
Beautiful dark olive green patina.David AthertonOct 19, 2019
|
|
RIC 383 DomitianÆ As, 9.49g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: MONETA AVGVST; S C in field; Moneta stg. l., with scales and cornucopiae
RIC 383 (C3). BMC -. BNC 374.
Acquired from Musa Numismatic, September 2019.
In 82 Domitian reformed the coinage by increasing the weight of the gold and fineness of the silver. Production of the bronze coinage was suspended while the mint was reorganised and resumed in 84 with new reverse types and a higher artistic standard. Appropriately, one of the first types struck on the bronze after the coinage reform was 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. Mirroring the silver, many of the bronze coins struck in the first year or so after the coinage reform have portraits with an aegis, an extra detail likely due to Domitian's attentive care. Under Domitian Moneta became a regular feature of the coinage and was struck year after year on the As issues. This example from 85 is one of the most common types struck for the As that year. Oddly enough, it is missing from the BM.
One gets the impression that Domitian was quite proud of his coinage reforms and Moneta was a symbolic reverse celebrating that achievement.
A nice example in hand, much better than the photo suggests.David AthertonSep 20, 2019
|
|
RIC 709 DomitianÆ As, 10.61g
Rome mint, 90-91 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI; S C in field; Virtus stg. r., foot on helmet, with spear and parazonium
RIC 709 (C2). BMC 452. BNC 482.
Acquired from Prafectus Coins, August 2019.
The Virtus type was struck repeatedly on Domitian's middle bronze from 84 onwards. I. Carradice in his 1983 monograph on Domitian's coinage says the following concerning the type - 'Virtus is a military type, symbolic of the courage of Domitian and the mutual devotion between the army and emperor.' Virtus first appears on the coinage in the flurry of Germania Capta types that were struck soon after Domitian's German triumph. She is depicted in traditional Amazon attire.
A superb example in fine style.David AthertonSep 05, 2019
|
|
RIC 397 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 26.19g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS PER 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 397 (R2). BMC 361. BNC -.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, August 2019.
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. 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 and a bound captive replaces the triumphal emperor. 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 sestertii were produced for only a few short years between 85-88. The present example from the third issue of 85 is a rare variant with an obverse legend struck just after Domitian had become censor for life (CENS PER).David AthertonAug 25, 2019
|
|
RIC 385 DomitianÆ As, 10.60g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: SALVTI above, AVGVSTI below; S C in field; Altar
RIC 385 (C2). BMC 358. BNC 379.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, August 2019.
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. 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. In any case, no trace of the shrine has survived antiquity.
This As with its aegis, large flan (30mm), and elegant idealised style are all hallmarks of the new direction introduced after the Senatorial mint's overhaul.David AthertonAug 19, 2019
|
|
RIC 367 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 11.64g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; 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 367 (C). BMC 347. BNC 364.
Ex eBay, August 2019.
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.
Flatly struck on one side, but in fine style.David AthertonAug 10, 2019
|
|
RIC 833 Domitian (1)Æ Dupondius, 12.14g
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. RPC 528. BNC 549.
Ex eBay, July 2019.
An unidentified Eastern mint struck aes coinage for Titus between 80-81 and then for Domitian in 81-82. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends, 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. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issues consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome.
Production at this Eastern mint continued uninterrupted between Titus' and Domitian's reigns, hinted at by Domitian's seamless adoption of Titus' types and legend formula after his accession - exemplified by the minor substitution of a 'D' for a 'T' in the obverse legend of this dupondius. Roma is the only reverse type struck on the dupondius for both issues. The coinage struck under Domitian at this mint is quite rare, owing to the short time frame in which it was produced. After its closure in early 82, the striking of imperial coinage would be consolidated at Rome for the remainder of Domitian's reign.
Handsome dark patina and honest wear.David AthertonAug 09, 2019
|
|
RIC 707 DomitianÆ As, 9.32g
Rome mint, 90-91 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV 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 707 (C). BMC 448. BNC 480.
Acquired from eBay, July 2019.
This common Fortuna type was repeatedly struck throughout Domitian's reign on his middle bronze. She also fleetingly showed up on the denarius 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.'
Good middle period style and nicely centred.David AthertonJul 29, 2019
|
|
RIC 110 DomitianÆ As, 10.56g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P; S C in field; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield
RIC 110 (C3). BMC 281. BNC 290.
Acquired from Holding History, eBay, June 2019.
Early in Domitian's reign Minerva figured prominently on the aes coinage. This as from early 82 featuring his patron deity with spear and shield would later be adopted by the denarius issues after the overhaul of the mint later in the year. It would become one of the standard four Minerva types for that denomination.
Fetching olive green patina.David AthertonJul 07, 2019
|
|
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.
David AthertonJun 27, 2019
|
|
RIC 751 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 23.75g
Rome mint, 92-94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XVI 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 751 (C2). BMC 464. BNC 491.
Acquired from eBay, May 2019. Ex Degani Coin Shop.
Just like the silver and gold, Domitian's aes coinage in the mid 80s settled down to a few predicable reverse types that were annually struck throughout the reign. The Sestertii were dominated by Victory crowning the emperor and the seated Jupiter with Victory, as seen on this coin. 'Jupiter the giver of Victory' was an important propaganda type because of the periodic conflicts on the Northern frontier that flared up form time to time. Domitian did not renew the consulship until 95, so these COS XVI sestertii are imprecisely dated between 92-94, which accounts for their extreme commonness.
A well worn example with a good portrait and fine olive green patina.David AthertonMay 26, 2019
|
|
RIC 821 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.42g
Rome mint, 96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XVI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva, winged, flying l., with spear and shield
RIC 821 (R2). BMC 237D. RSC 297b. BNC - .
Acquired from jerusalemhadaya2012, eBay, 4 March 2019.
Domitian achieved tribunician power for the 16th time on 14 September 96 AD. He was assassinated in a palace plot four days later on 18 September. In between those two dates the mint struck only one issue of denarii recording Domitian as TR P XVI, needless to say they are extremely rare! The Senate decreed Damnatio Memoriae within a day of Domitian's assassination which would have quickly halted production at the mint for his coinage. The months leading up to Domitian's assassination saw the mint at Rome experimenting with many new reverse designs (altar, 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 and were perhaps experimental in nature. This denarius shows one of these new reverse types, Minerva Victrix, a more warrior like attribute of the goddess. The fact that this new type which originally appeared on the denarius when Domitian was TR P XV carried over to the briefly struck TR P XVI issue alongside the Maia and the M1, M3, and M4 Minerva types may hint that there was indeed change in the air at the mint. Perhaps the mix of new types with the older ones hint at a transition regarding the typology on his precious metal coinage? Regardless, the experiment was cut short by an assassin's blade, so we shall never know. This denarius may very well be the last coin ever struck for Domitian.
Fine late style with good natural toning. Same dies as the BM specimen.
David AthertonMar 19, 2019
|
|
RIC 251 DomitianÆ Quadrans, 3.32g
Rome Mint, 84-85 AD
Obv: (No legend) Rhinoceros stg. l.
Rev: IMP DOMIT AVG GERM; S C in centre
RIC 251 (R). BMC -. BNC 542.
Acquired from Marc Breitsprecher, February 2019.
A few years into Domitian's reign an extraordinary issue of quadrantes were struck featuring a rhinoceros. Although the coins are undated, their production can be narrowed down between late 83 when he assumed the title Germanicus and 85 when the consular date XI appeared on the quadrantes. The type is highly unusual and breaks with the standard obverses that were normally featured on the quadrans. One may ask, why a rhinoceros? Certainly the animal was rare in Rome and most difficult to obtain. The rhinoceros depicted on the coin is the African species, identified by the two horns. Martial in his book 'On Spectacles' tells of such a rhinoceros in the Colosseum. Presumably, these coins were struck with that very 'star performer' in mind. Ted Buttrey wrote about this coin type in his article Domitian, the Rhinoceros, and the Date of Martial's "Liber De Spectaculis": "it is wrong to write off the rhinoceros of Domitian's coin casually, as if the coin were a picture postcard from the zoo: 'This is a rhinoceros'. No, coin types are pointed. Everything has to do with imperial advertisement and with its importance at the moment of issue: 'This is my rhinoceros'. Domitian's rhinoceros, in its supremacy in the arena might well stand as a metaphor for the invincible success of the emperor conquering general who had recently assumed the historically-weighted title of Germanicus." Coming back to Martial, he also speaks of tokens being showered upon the cheering crowds - could these quadrantes struck cheaply and in massive quantities have been gifts to the cheering mob at the arena? In essence, can this coin double as currency and a souvenir from a long ago day at the games in the Colosseum?
This variant of the famous rhinoceros quadrans is somewhat rare (no examples in the BM) because of the obverse legend beginning in the upper right, more commonly it begins in the lower left. Artistically, most of the rhinos depicted on these coins have a lot to be desired. Some look like wild boars with horns added for effect. Happily, the animal depicted on this coin's obverse indeed looks every part the powerful and fearsome beast which awestruck Roman audiences - as a matter of fact, it appears to be charging with its head down. Perhaps the engraver was a witness to the very games martial describes?
As mentioned above, the rhino depicted on the coin is the two-horned African species. In contrast, the Indian rhino has one horn. Pliny in his Natural Histories describes the rhinoceros as a one horned creature (although confusingly he confirms its Ethiopian origins), Martial said it had two. The rhino was so rare in Rome, Pliny had to go all the way back to the games of Pompey the Great in 55 BC to find a reference for the animal on display in the city, apparently it was a one-horned Indian rhino. At any rate, both the numismatic evidence and Martial's description coincide rather nicely to confirm that Domitian, at great expense no doubt, brought to Rome an African rhinoceros for his shows in the new Colosseum. The surviving coins featuring this fantastic beast prove how important a feat this was to the emperor.
Well centred with a lovely green patina and fine style.David AthertonFeb 19, 2019
|
|
RIC 623b DomitianÆ As, 10.13g
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 FEC; S C in exergue; Domitian stg. l., sacrificing over altar; to l., flute player and lyre player stg. r.; in background, temple, wreath in pediment
RIC 623b (C2). BMC 434. BNC 471.
Acquired from Künker, January 2019. Ex Heinrich Pilartz Münzhandlung.
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.
The reverse on this as features a daytime victimless sacrifice of cakes to Apollo and Diana on the sixth and last day of the celebrations, held in front of an unidentified hexastyle temple somewhere on the Palatine. The stylised nature of the reverse's design makes it difficult to pinpoint the temple in question. The generic decorative wreath in the pediment offers no clues. Another variant of the type (RIC 623a) has an eagle in the pediment, perhaps an indication the engravers were not intending to depict a specific temple at all. The scene could stand alone and be an excellent representation for all the religious ceremonies of the games. The main message of the design is to show the Roman people that Domitian provided and responsibly held the Secular Games. The fact this type was struck in fairly large quantities hints it was an important piece of Domitianic propaganda.
Struck on a large flan in fine style.David AthertonFeb 05, 2019
|
|
RIC 078 DomitianÆ Sestertius, 25.82g
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; S C in field; Minerva stg. l., with spear
RIC 78 (C2). BMC 261. BNC 276.
Acquired from Vilmar, December 2018. Formerly in NGC holder 4280613-006, grade 'F'.
While Domitian's initial denarius output is dominated by the carry-over pulvinar types from Titus, his first issue of sestertii have a more personal touch with the reverses featuring his patron deity Minerva. These first bronze coins were not struck in massive quantities and likely date between mid October and 31 December 81. The reverse legend indicates he is consul for the seventh time and has already been voted as consul for the eighth time beginning 1 January 82.
Superb portrait with an aged brassy appearance.David AthertonDec 26, 2018
|
|
RIC 562 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.45g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERMANICVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XIIII across field; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 562 (R). BMC 141. RSC 67. BNC -.
Ex Spink eAuction 18055, 7 November 2018, The Michael Kelly Collection of Roman Coins part 2, lot 95.
In 88 AD Domitian struck a brief special issue of Minerva denarii with unusual obverse legends and austere reverse designs. The obverse legends deviate from the usual formula, sometimes spelling out fully DOMITIANVS and/or GERMANICVS and lacking a TR P number. The reverses feature only a terse legend across field with the IMP number absent. Here is an example from this rare issue with GERMANICVS spelled out on the obverse and the consular number across field on the reverse. Why the mint was experimenting with the legends and the layout of the reverses in 88 is a mystery. Perhaps the issue was struck in conjunction with a special event that year (the Secular Games?) and are commemorative in nature. Regardless, the mint soon returned the denarius to its conventional Minerva arrangement, hinting that these scarce issues were indeed struck for a special occasion.
Struck in good style. David AthertonDec 05, 2018
|
|
RIC 015 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: P P COS VII DES VIII; Seat, draped; above, semicircular frame decorated with corn ears
RIC 15 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Savoca Blue 10, 30 September 2018, lot 1212.
The rapidity in which Domitian's first denarius issues of 81 came one after another hint that he was in a great hurry to strike coins as Augustus after Titus's death in mid September 81 AD, presumably for a legionary donative. Dio records that Domitian hastened to the praetorian camp to 'receive the title and authority of the emperor' and promised the soldiers the same bounty Titus had provided. The Roman mint immediately began striking coins for the new emperor. This denarius was struck before Domitian had been awarded the power of the tribunate (TR P). Perhaps it may have taken a few days for the Senate to award the power of the tribunate to Domitian because they had assembled at the small town of Reate where Titus had died and needed to be in Rome in order to vote him the right. Although this Group 2 denarius is not part of Domitian's first RIC issue, it is very likely to have been struck within the first few weeks of him assuming the purple. RIC notes the chronology is not precise with these issues from 81 and they are grouped only for 'convenience'. Judging by the rarity of the Group 2 denarii they could not have been struck for any great length of time.
The type of draped seat with semi circular frame is a carry-over 'pulvinaria' type from Titus, possibly originally struck in connection with the Colosseum's opening games' religious ceremonies. Domitian's 'pulvinaria' coins are a stop-gap issue struck until proper reverse types were designed for the new reign in early 82 when the mint and coinage were overhauled.
Good early style portrait, unsurprisingly reminiscent of those struck for him as Caesar under Titus.David AthertonOct 16, 2018
|
|
RIC 221 DomitianÆ As, 10.23g
Rome mint, 84 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS X; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: MONETA AVGVST; S C in field; Moneta stg. l., with scales and cornucopiae
RIC 221 (C2). BMC 288. BNC 304.
Acquired from Marti Classical Numismatics, September 2018.
In 82 Domitian reformed the coinage by increasing the weight of the gold and fineness of the silver. Production of the bronze coinage was suspended while the mint was reorganised and resumed in 84 with new reverse types. Appropriately, one of the first types struck on the bronze after the coinage reform was Moneta, 'mint goddess of the emperor'. 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.
Superb portrait and nice brown patina.David AthertonSep 25, 2018
|
|
RIC 847 Domitia [Domitian]AR Cistophorus
Rome mint (for Asia), 82 AD
Obv: DOMITIA AVGVSTA; Bust of Domitia, draped r., hair massed in front and in long plait behind
Rev: VENVS AVG; Venus stg. r., leaning on column, with helmet and spear
RIC 847 (R). BMC 256. RSC 19. RPC 870 (8 spec.). BNC 226.
Ex CNG E424, 11 July 2018, lot 471.
A brief issue of cistophori were struck for Domitia as Augusta under Domitian in 82. Venus leaning on column was the sole reverse type chosen for her rare cistophori. The style and six o'clock die axis point to Rome as the home mint. K. Butcher and M. Ponting's metal analysis reveal they were struck from a different stock of metal than contemporary Rome mint denarii, possibly from recycled older denarii. At 80% silver fineness these early cistophori were likely struck before Domitian's major coinage reform of 82 when the denarius was raised to nearly 100% fineness.
Domitia Longina was the daughter of the famed Roman general Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo who was commanded to commit suicide by Nero for alleged treason. Domitian courted and married Domitia soon after Vespasian's accession, despite her already being the wife of Aelius Lamia. It was a good match - distancing the Flavians from the reign of Nero and uniting them to a beloved general's family. Soon after Domitian become emperor, Suetonius tells us he briefly divorced Domitia because of an adulterous affair she had with the actor Paris. Dio claims Domitian actually considered executing her but was persuaded from doing so by the praetorian prefect Ursus. He soon reunited with her after a brief separation alleging the people demanded it. Where this coin fits into that time frame is hard to tell. We don't know exactly when the divorce occurred or how long it lasted. However, it is likely this coin was struck after their reconciliation and can be seen as symbolically strengthening Domitia's position at court.
Struck in fine early style.
David AthertonJul 25, 2018
|
|
RIC 016 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.43g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: P P COS VII DES VIII; Seat, draped; above, semicircular frame decorated with three crescents
RIC 16 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC 8.
Acquired from Germania Inferior, June 2018.
Domitian seems to have been in somewhat of a hurry to strike coins as Augustus after Titus's death in mid September 81 AD, presumably for a legionary donative. This denarius was struck before Domitian had been awarded the power of the tribunate (TR P) and pontifex maximus (PM). Here his only titles are Augustus (AVG), Imperator (IMP), Consul for the 7th time (COS VII), and pater patriae, father of the country (P P). Perhaps it may have taken a few days for the Senate to award the power of the tribunate to Domitian because they had assembled at the small town of Reate where Titus had died and needed to be in Rome in order to vote him the right. The religious ceremonies required for Domitian to assume the title pontifex maximus had not yet finished by this time either, 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. Although this Group 2 denarius is not part of Domitian's first RIC issue, it is very likely to have been struck within the first few days of him assuming the purple. RIC notes the chronology is not precise with these issues from 81 and they are grouped only for 'convenience'. Judging by the rarity of the Group 2 denarii they could not have been struck for any great length of time.
Dark cabinet toning with a stylish early portrait.David AthertonJul 11, 2018
|
|
RIC 855 DomitianAR Cistophorus, 10.28g
Rome mint (for Asia), 95 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: Temple with two columns, inscribed ROM ET AVG in entablature, enclosing Augustus. stg. front to l., with spear, crowned by Roma to r., with cornucopiae; G in exergue
RIC 855 (C). BMC p. 352, *. RSC 407. RPC 875 (2 spec.). BNC -.
Acquired from Emerald Imports, eBay, May 2018. Formerly in NGC holder 4278229-001, grade 'Ch VF', strike 5/5, surface 4/5, 'Fine style'.
A small issue of cistophori were struck by Domitian in 95. The style and six o'clock die axis point to Rome as the probable mint. Interestingly, K. Butcher and M. Ponting's recent metal analysis of the series reveals it was struck from a different stock of metal than contemporaneous denarii, possibly from recycled republican and early imperial pieces. This rare reverse features the temple of Roma and Augustus at Pergamum copied from the cistophori of Claudius. The temple was erected in 29 BC and was an important centre of the imperial cult in the region. No archaeological remains have been found of the structure, only the coins hint at how it may have appeared. RPC speculates the 'G' in exergue may be the mark of an officina, although, why the Rome mint would use a mint mark on the cistophori and not on any other issues is quite puzzling.
This coin originally came in a NGC slab which noted it as 'fine style'. I quite agree.David AthertonMay 30, 2018
|
|
RIC 851 DomitianAR Cistophorus, 9.99g
Rome mint (for Asia), 95 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIIII IMP XXII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XVII CENS P P P; Aquila between two standards, one surmounted by a banner, the other by a hand; G in exergue
RIC 851 (C). BMC 253. RSC 94. RPC 873 (8 spec.). BNC -.
Ex NFC Coins, eBay, 18 April 2018.
A small issue of cistophori were struck by Domitian in 95. Style and die axis identify Rome as the home mint. Curiously, K. Butcher and M. Ponting's metal analysis reveal they were struck from a different stock of metal than contemporary denarii, possibly from recycled older denarii. The traditional military type of aquila and standards is the most commonly encountered reverse from the series. It is copied from coins struck for Nero and Galba. The 'G' in exergue may be the mark of an officina.
Struck in good late style.David AthertonMay 16, 2018
|
|
RIC 788A DomitianAR Denarius, 3.18g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XV; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r. with aegis
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 788A. BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Dionysos Numismatik, eBay, 27 March 2018.
An extremely rare Domitian aegis portrait from 95/96, possibly the second known example with this reverse type. Domitian's aegis portraits on denarii were more commonly struck in 84 and 85, sparingly so afterwards. The Rome mint was experimenting with new reverse designs and portrait types for the denarius issues during the last year of the reign. Perhaps the reintroduction of the aegis may have been part of this new programme? Of course we shall never know - Domitian's assassination in September 96 cut short any experimentation with his coinage. This rare variant only came to light recently and has been added to the RIC II.1 Addenda as RIC 788A.
Bold portrait and fine style.David AthertonApr 25, 2018
|
|
RIC 334 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.11g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 334 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
A rare denarius from the first issue struck after Domitian's second coinage reform. In 82 Domitian increased the silver fineness of the denarius to nearly 100% purity. Three years later in mid 85 the fineness was again adjusted, this time downward to nearly 90%, still higher than the average 80% inherited from Titus. Domitian assumed the powers of censor in April of 85 which was recorded on the coinage. The title was successively contracted in three issues - CENSORIA POTESTAT, CENS POTES, and CENS POT. According to metal analyses by Walker and more recently confirmed by Butcher and Ponting, Domitian's second coinage reform took place between the last two issues - the CENS POT issue being the first under the new standard. This was the last issue to regularly show Domitian denarii with aegis. From 85 onwards the aegis would only appear sparingly on special issues.
Fine style with large flan.David AthertonMar 14, 2018
|
|
RIC 012 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.93g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PONT; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: P P COS VII DES VIII; Dolphin coiled round anchor
RIC 12 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Marc Breitsprecher, January 2018.
A lot of interesting things are going on with this 81 AD Group 2 pulvinar denarius. Firstly, there is the rare 'PONT' obverse legend with DOMITIANVS fully spelled out. Secondly, an exceedingly rare reverse legend beginning with P P. And lastly, there is no TRP number. All of these elements combine together resulting in a very rare variant of a common type; as a matter of fact, this is the second known specimen! The new RIC II.1 was the first catalogue to publish this rare variant, although in the subsequent A&C the entry was suppressed because the obverse legend reading of the lone specimen cited was incorrect. The discovery of the above coin is confirmation of the variety's existence. Of note, this coin is a reverse die match with the RIC 13 plate coin, which is the other rare dolphin/anchor variant from the group with the shorter DOMITIAN obverse legend.
NB: I am at a loss to explain why this issue lacks a TRP number, considering the previous issue (Domitian's first) records it.
Handsome, if a bit corroded.David AthertonMar 07, 2018
|
|
RIC 585 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.04g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERMAN P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 585 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection
This denarius is from a very common issue struck in 88 which is peppered with exceedingly rare variants. Here we have an obverse legend spelling of 'GERMAN' instead of the much more common 'GERM'. The experimental nature of the scarce variants perhaps ties them with the Secular Games which were held later the same year. After 88, new legends and reverse designs did not make another appearance on Domitian's denarius issues until the last year (or months) of his reign in 95-96.
Fine portrait on a broad flan.David AthertonFeb 20, 2018
|
|
RIC 555 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.88g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS XIIII across field; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 555 (R2). BMC p. 325 note. RSC 233a. BNC 113.
Ex Private Collection.
88 AD was the year Domitian held the Secular Games and the Rome mint struck a series of denarii with reverses that explicitly commemorated the event. Additionally, the mint was experimenting with the denarius' standard Minerva reverse designs and legends. These special Minerva issues struck early in 88 may have a connection to the games as well. This denarius has the normal Minerva with spear (M4) but unusually has the consular date across field and lacks the IMP number. Denarii with the legends across field are very rare. It is a Reverse die match with the RIC plate coin, a good indication of how rare the type is.
A bit under weight, but in fine style and nicely centred. David AthertonFeb 13, 2018
|
|
RIC 738 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome mint, 92 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 738 (R2). BMC (spec. acquired 1990). RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Dionysos, eBay, January 2018.
This denarius is from a very rare issue struck towards the end of summer 92 and can be dated by the TR P XI and IMP XXII, an exceedingly rare combination. This series commemorating Domitian's 22nd imperial acclamation was most likely awarded for a victory against the Sarmatians and Suevi near the end of the campaigning season just before he became TR P XII on 14th September. The rarity of this dating combination indicates just how tight the window was for this issue. Perhaps struck for just a few fleeting weeks (or days).
A bit ragged, but in good metal and nicely centred. David AthertonFeb 07, 2018
|
|
RIC 333 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.19g
Rome mint, 85 AD
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. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 333 (R2). BMC specimen acquired 1987. RSC 180. BNC 80.
Acquired from Germania Inferior, January 2018.
In 82 Domitian increased the silver fineness of the denarius to nearly 100% purity. Three years later in mid 85 the fineness was again adjusted, this time downward to c. 90%, presumably for monetary or fiscal reasons. Domitian also assumed the powers of censor in April of 85 which was recorded on the coinage. The title was successively contracted in three issues - CENSORIA POTESTAT, CENS POTES, and finally CENS POT. According to metal analyses by Walker and more recently confirmed by Butcher and Ponting, Domitian's second coinage reform took place between the last two issues - the CENS POT issue being the first under the new standard. Curiously, this 'CENS POT' denarius has what appears to be 'al marco' weight adjustment marks, plainly visible on the reverse to the left of Minerva. Is it possibly during the minting of this first issue under the new standard the mint workers were extra careful with the coinage's weight? Whatever the case, the gouges must date to antiquity owing to the fact that they and the unblemished surfaces are similarily toned.
An extremely rare coin. Engraved in the period's typical fine style.
David AthertonJan 24, 2018
|
|
RIC 573 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.32g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERMAN P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 573 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from eBay, January 2018.
Very rare with 'GERMAN'. So rare in fact, Ian Carradice needed confirmation denarii existed with this spelling when he wrote Coinage and Finances In the Reign of Domitian in 1983. Since the publication of that work several examples have surfaced. The issue this denarius is from also features extremely rare aegis portraits. I think what we have here are the markings of a special issue, perhaps struck in conjunction with the Secular Games which were held the same year the special denarii were struck. The series also features many coins engraved in fine 'Flavian baroque' style, as clearly seen on this example.
Well centred and fine style.David AthertonJan 18, 2018
|
|
RIC 769 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.77g
Rome mint, 94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 769 (C). BMC 221. RSC 284a. BNC 197.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, December 2017. Ex G&N 14, 2 March 2017, lot 602.
Struck between mid September and 31 December. Although the frequency rating in RIC rates this denarius as 'common' it is a fairly rare dating combination, owing to the fact it was minted for just a few months.
Superb style and in fantastic condition.David AthertonDec 27, 2017
|
|
RIC 118 DomitianAR Quinarius, 1.52g
Rome mint, 81- early 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG PM; Head of Domitian, laureate, r.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST (anti-clockwwise, outwardly, from high l.); Victory std. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 118 (C). BMC 57. RSC 625. BNC 56.
Acquired from Dmitry Markov, December 2017.
This undated quinarius is part of Domitian's first issue of quinarii coined early in the reign. The style and silver fineness of 80% indicate it was struck before the great coinage reform of 82 when the silver fineness was increased to 99%. Probably the most common variant of the type from the issue, 'common' being a relative term here!
Darkly toned and in fine early style. Punch-mark(?) in obverse field.
David AthertonDec 20, 2017
|
|
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.David AthertonNov 29, 2017
|
|
RIC 816 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.73g
Rome mint, 95-96 AD
Obv: DOMITIANVS AVG GERM; Head of Domitian, bare, bearded, r.
Rev: Temple, eight columns, seated figure in centre; IMP CAESAR on architrave
RIC 816 (R2). BMC 243. RSC 175. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
Domitian struck a rare undated issue of denarii depicting five different temples. Based on portrait style and the fact that Domitian's moneyers were experimenting with new reverse designs after 94, the issue has been dated to either 95 or 96. Four of the five temples have been identified - Serapis, Cybele, Minerva, and Capitoline Jupiter. The fifth type is an octastyle temple, as seen on the coin above, and its identification remains a mystery. Mattingly conjectured it could be the Temple of Divus Vespasian, P.V. Hill and D. Vagi thought it possibly the Temple of Jupiter Victor, R.H. Darwell-Smith speculated it is the Temple of Jupiter Custos, and M. Tameanko believed it to be the Temple of Divus Augustus. Tameanko makes the strongest case. Earlier renditions of the temple on the coinage under Caligula show it with a hexastyle facade. Domitian restored or rebuilt the temple after the fire of 80. His architect Rabirius may have completely overhauled the building in a more contemporary style producing an octastyle temple. Almost a hundred years later Antoninus Pius restored the temple again and struck a series of coins commemorating the event. His coins indeed depict an octastyle temple very much like the one seen on this denarius and may be proof that under Domitian the temple was rebuilt as an octastyle structure. However, until more evidence comes to light, the identification remains uncertain. Like Domitian's earlier Saecular Games series, the temple denarii were likely struck as a special issue, perhaps reflecting Domitian's new interest as builder. The remarkable bare headed portrait further enhances the issue as something special.
Needless to say it is a fantastically rare piece! Additionally, the eight column type may be the scarcest of the temple group, considering I have located only two other examples in trade over the last 15 years. The other two coins (OldRomanCoins 2002, HJB 145, lot 265) are obverse die matches with mine. Oddly, some specimens (BM 234 for example) lack IMP CAESAR on the architrave.
Worn, with some bumps and scrapes, but well-centred and in good style with plenty of eye appeal.
David AthertonOct 10, 2017
|
|
RIC 450 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.38g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIII COS XII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 450 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Numismeo, September 2017.
In 86 Domitian was awarded imperial acclamations at an accelerated pace due to the Dacian War, which resulted in some fairly rare denarius issues. This coin is from the extremely rare fourth issue of 86, probably struck for just a few days or so until word of the next imperial acclamation reached the mint. The Minerva fighting (M1) and Minerva on rostral column (M2) are the only two denarius types known for the issue. The coins are so rare that Mattingly even doubted the issue's existence (BMCRE p. 320 note).
Struck in fine style on a large flan.David AthertonOct 04, 2017
|
|
RIC 652 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.93g
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 adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 652 (R2). BMC 145. RSC 243. BNC 138.
Acquired from NumisCorner, August 2017.
Domitian was acquiring imperial acclamations at a rapid pace in late 88 due to intense military activity in Germania and Dacia. The coins record the successive acclamations quite meticulously. Here is a very rare coin dated with his 16th imperial acclamation. Domitian was awarded his 17th imperial acclamation by 7 November, so this coin was struck at some point before then, perhaps for just a few days judging by the rarity of the title. We do not know what long lost victory the 16th salutation was awarded for, all that remains are the coins recording it. A reverse die match with the BM specimen, perhaps further evidence of its rarity.
Struck in good metal and nicely centred.David AthertonSep 21, 2017
|
|
RIC 056 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.22g
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 adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 56 (R2). BMC p. 299, note. RSC 560a. BNC -.
Ex eBay, September 2017.
Here is a rare Domitian 'PONT' denarius with the legend variant of DOMITIANVS fully spelled out. Denarii with 'PONT' instead of PM in the obverse legend come very early in the reign. Historically, PONT did not stand for Pontifex Maximus under Augustus, but did so under Nero (PONT was used after Nero was already Pontifex Maximus, BMC 9). It is possible Domitian followed Nero's example and used PONT as an abbreviation for Pontifex Maximus. Conversely, it is also possible he followed in Augustus' footsteps and used the temporary title 'PONT' until the ceremony electing him to the position was completed. We simply do not know. 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 office seems to have had no fixed date of appointment. Knowing how much of a stickler Domitian was to keeping to the proper forms, the mint likely waited until his election as Pontifex Maximus before the title was displayed on the coinage. Whether or not that title on the coinage after the election was abbreviated as 'PONT' for a brief time is a mystery.
Struck in fine early style with a well centred obverse.David AthertonSep 14, 2017
|
|
RIC 597 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.60g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC; Herald adv. l., with wand and shield
RIC 597 (R2). BMC 133 var. RSC - (cf. 77a). BNC -.
Acquired from Michael Trenerry, August 2017.
An extremely rare example of the Secular Games herald denarius with portrait head left. Probably the fifth recorded specimen. Obverse die match with the RIC plate coin.
Somewhat worn, but nicely centred and in fine style.David AthertonSep 05, 2017
|
|
RIC 599 DomitianAR Quinarius, 1.61g
Rome mint, 88 AD
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
RIC 599 (C2). BMC 134. RSC 78. BNC 122.
Ex CNG E404, 23 August 2017, lot 504. Ex Helios 1, 17 April 2008, lot 248 (The Frank L. Kovacs Collection).
Unusually, this quinarius lacks the de rigueur Victory on the reverse, instead we have an interesting historical type of a Herald announcing Domitian's Ludi Saeculares. This was the only saeculum type struck on his quinarii. The games were held in 88 following the Augustan cycle. Presumably this piece was struck for commemorative purposes in conjunction with the games. RIC places the frequency rating for this type as 'very common' (C2), however, this seems a bit over generous. Perhaps a rating of 'common' (C) would be more appropriate. The upcoming RIC II.1 Addenda notes the frequency discrepancy, citing C. Clay's concern that only nineteen specimens are in King's survey of Roman quinarii.
A lovely piece with dark toning and fine style.David AthertonAug 29, 2017
|
|
RIC 688 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome mint, 89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 688 (C2). BMC 163. RSC 255. BNC 156.
Acquired from Numisbur, eBay, August 2017.
In 88 and 89, due to increased military campaigns in Germania and Dacia, imperial acclamations were being awarded to Domitian at a quick pace culminating in a double triumph the Senate voted Domitian over the chatti and Dacians at the end of 89. The rapid succession of titles was meticulously recorded on his denarii. This denarius dates between mid September and 31 December 89. Domitian's double triumph was held while this issue was struck.
Good style portrait typical of the period.David AthertonAug 16, 2017
|
|
RIC 040 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.17g
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; Altar, garlanded and lighted
RIC 40 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, June 2017.
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. Interestingly, the obverse legend displays the Greek influenced 'Y' instead of 'V', perhaps evidence of a Greek engraver's handiwork. The altar on the reverse is a carry-over pulvinaria type struck for Domitian as Caesar under Titus, perhaps representing the pulvinar of Vesta and Vulcan.
A sharp VF denarius struck when the dies were fresh. Good early style.
David AthertonJul 04, 2017
|
|
RIC 072 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.15g
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; Seat, draped; above, winged thunderbolt
RIC 72 (R2). BMC -. RSC 575a. BNC -.
Ex Münzhandlung Dirk Löbbers, eBay, April 2017.
The reverse is a carry-over pulvinaria type from Titus' coinage with an added touch of filial piety on the obverse. The 'DIVI VESP F' in the obverse legend is a scarce variant not often seen on Domitian's denarii. To date, this is only the second denarius with this legend variant I've been able to obtain.
Sharp details and in good early style.
David AthertonMay 02, 2017
|
|
RIC 444 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.92g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XII COS XII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 444 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Ancient Treasures, eBay, April 2017.
Second known M1 specimen from the third issue of 86. This rare dating combination could not have been struck for very long after Domitian became TR P VI in mid September due to the the issue's extreme rarity. In fact, the final 'I' in the obverse legend appears to have been engraved over the tip of the bust, indicating it is a reworked TR P V die. Not long after this coin was struck (perhaps just a few days) word reached the mint of Domitian's thirteenth imperial acclamation, ending this issue's brief run.
Nicely toned with a very fine style portrait.David AthertonApr 14, 2017
|
|
RIC 052 Domitian (1)AR Denarius, 2.62g
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; Dolphin coiled round anchor
RIC 52 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Lanz, eBay, February 2017.
Nothing more quite shows how much of a stickler Domitian was for keeping to the letter of the law than the 'PONT' denarii struck very early in his reign. Domitian would not call himself by the full title Pontifex Maximus until the proper religious ceremonies voting him as such were concluded. The PONT denarii provide numismatic evidence for Suetonius' claim that Domitian scrupulously observed the proper formalities (Dom. VII - IX). The coins themselves are quite rare, struck in a brief window of time while Domitian was being awarded his full titles.The resulting sequence of titles is quite fascinating!
Interestingly, the 'V' in AVG here looks more like a 'Y'. Some have speculated that this shows evidence of a Greek engraver working at the mint early in Domitian's reign. Same obverse and reverse dies as my second specimen.
Struck in good metal with a minor flan crack.David AthertonMar 08, 2017
|
|
RIC 677 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.91g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD (sixth issue)
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 677 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
A very rare denarius from the scarce sixth issue of 88-89, perhaps struck for only a few weeks or days prior to 14 September 89, upon which Domitian became TRP VIIII. The first Pannonian War may account for the rapid succession of imperial acclamations during this time period.
A few marks, but still has some good eye appeal in hand.David AthertonJan 25, 2017
|
|
RIC 674 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.10g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD (sixth issue)
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 674 (R2). BMC 157. RSC 254c. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
All the denarii from the sixth issue of 88-89 are quite scarce, perhaps struck for only a few weeks or days prior to 14 September 89, upon which Domitian became TRP VIIII. The first Pannonian War may account for the rapid succession of imperial acclamations during this time period. This Minerva M1 type is the only example the BM has from the issue, just to indicate how rare it is.
Solid portrait with honest wear.David AthertonJan 25, 2017
|
|
RIC 577 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.73g
Rome mint, 88 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERMAN P M TR P VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 577 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
At first glance this Domitian Minerva denarius is nothing special, however, upon closer inspection one can see the obverse legend has the rare GERMAN spelling instead of the very common GERM. RIC cites only two specimens - one in Belgrade, another in a private collection. This is a very common issue from 88, but unusually it is peppered with scarce variants, such as this rare obverse legend. Other rarities include busts with aegis and a unique 5 aurei piece (subsequently stolen from Paris). Perhaps it's a special issue struck in conjunction with the Secular Games which were held in 88.
Worn, but with a fine style portrait.David AthertonJan 17, 2017
|
|
RIC 184 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.93g
Rome mint, 84 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG GERMANIC; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: P M TR POT III IMP V COS X P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 184 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.
In 82 AD when Domitian overhauled the mint and increased the fineness of the denarius, he also apparently brought in new engravers who began working in a more elaborate, idealised style. The second denarius issue of 84 is the first to employ the new style and it would dominate the denarius issues for the rest of Domitian's reign. Domitian adopted the title GERMANICVS in the first issue of 84, shortening it to GERMANIC here in the second issue, all of which are extremely rare. This denarius from that second issue is a fine example of the new idealised style with its large portrait and delicately rendered features. RIC cites two specimens of the type, none of which are in the BM or Paris. Notably, the coin is a detectorist find from outside the boundaries of the Empire in Eastern Europe.
Darkly toned and somewhat porous (which accounts for the low weight).David AthertonJan 12, 2017
|
|
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.David AthertonDec 28, 2016
|
|
RIC 516 DomitianAR Quinarius, 1.54g
Rome mint, 87 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XIII CENS P P P; Victory std. l., with wreath and palm
RIC 516 (C). BMC 109. RSC 220. BNC 109.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, November 2016. Ex Roma Auction XII, 29 September 2016, lot 712.
Although this quinarius is listed as 'common' in RIC, compared to denarii the output of quinarii was meagre during the Flavian era. Struck in the first issue of 87, 1 January to 13 September. Interestingly, the corresponding gold quinarius with these titles is unique.
Well centred with full legends and darkly toned. David AthertonNov 23, 2016
|
|
RIC 844 DomitianAR Cistophorus, 10.66g
Rome mint (for Asia), 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR DOMITIANVS AVG; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: Aquila between two standards, one surmounted by a banner, the other by a hand
RIC 844 (R). BMC p. 352. RSC 668. RPC 868 (3 spec.). BNC 224.
Ex. Harlan J. Berk BBS 144, 13 July 2005, lot 572.
Rare with undated obverse legend. Struck contemporaneously or subsequently with COS VIII dated cistophori. Style and 6h die axis point to a Rome mint issue.
Good Titus-like portrait in fine early style. David AthertonOct 31, 2016
|
|
RIC 766 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.22g
Rome mint, 94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 768 (C). BMC p. 341 note. RSC 284c. BNC -.
Ex Spartan 74, 20 September 2016, lot 164.
Struck in 94 between mid September and 31 December. Listed as 'common' in RIC, but not in BM.
Nice portrait with minor flan flaw on obverse.David AthertonSep 28, 2016
|
|
RIC 768 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.21g
Rome mint, 94 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 768 (C). BMC (spec. acquired 1989). RSC 284b. BNC -.
Acquired from Mauseus, August 2016.
This denarius is part of the last issue of 94, struck after mid September until the end of the year. The issue is somewhat scarce, although RIC rates all the denarii in it as 'common'.
Nice portrait and well centred. David AthertonSep 13, 2016
|
|
RIC 665 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.12g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XVIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 665 (R2). BMC p. 331, *. RSC 247b. BNC 144.
A very rare denarius from Domitian's third issue of 88-89 recording his 18th imperial acclamation. Domitian was campaigning against the Dacians in 88 and presumably that is the likely explanation for most of the imperial acclamations during the time period. Those denarii with IMP XVIII are some of the rarest and were probably struck for just a few days. A military diploma dated 7 November, 88 records Domitian as IMP XVII, therefore this tiny issue must have been struck soon after that date at the end of 88 and/or very early in 89. RIC speculates mid December 88. All the denarii from this issue are quite scarce.
Struck in good metal in average style.David AthertonSep 06, 2016
|
|
RIC 447 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.95g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XII COS XII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 447 (R). BMC (spec. acquired 1987). RSC -. BNC 101.
Ex TimesAncient, eBay, July 2016.
Imperial acclamations were awarded to Domitian at a fairly quick pace during 86 because of the Dacian campaign. Many issues were struck only for a brief time before news arrived of a new imperial salutation. This denarius is from the very rare third issue.
Coined in fine style on a large flan.
David AthertonAug 10, 2016
|
|
RIC 439 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.15g
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 stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 439 (R). BMC p. 319, note. RSC 202. BNC 98.
Acquired from Romae Aeternae, June 2016.
The second denarius issue of 86 records Domitian's 12th imperial acclamation. TR P V indicates it was struck before mid September. A fairly rare issue.
Obverse scratches, but I think the fine portrait redeems the coin.David AthertonJun 16, 2016
|
|
RIC 392A DomitianAR Denarius, 2.90g
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; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 392A (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Incitatus Coins, May 2016.
A previously unknown Minerva type 3 from Domitian's rare sixth issue of denarii for 85. Until this coin recently surfaced only three of the four standard Minerva types were known for this issue, now all four are accounted for. Ted Buttrey was notified of this coin's existence and he has assigned it as RIC 392A in the Flavian RIC Addenda. In the Flavian RIC Addenda another specimen is now noted - Hurston list 43, 1985, lot 10.
Well toned with rainbow hints and a stylish portrait. David AthertonMay 23, 2016
|
|
RIC 657 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.23g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XVII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear amd shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 657 (R). BMC 148. RSC 247. BNC 139.
Acquired from Zurqieh, April 2016
Domitian did not take the consulship in 89, so this rare 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.
Solid portrait struck on good metal. Much better in hand.David AthertonMay 13, 2016
|
|
RIC 687 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.36g
Rome mint, 89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 687 (C2). BMC 160. RSC 256. BNC 155.
A fairly common denarius struck at a time of increased military activity along the Danube. Imperial acclamations were being awarded to Domitian at a fast pace culminating in a double triumph the Senate voted Domitian over the chatti and Dacians at the end of the year.
Engraved in decent style and in good metal. Denarii of this period were struck at 90% fineness.David AthertonApr 28, 2016
|
|
RIC 028 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.23g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: COS VII DES VIII P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 28 (R2). BMC p. 433. RSC 56a. BNC -.
The Minerva on this denarius is distinctively quite flamboyant and was struck in the Autumn of 81 soon after Domitian became emperor. This is one of the earliest appearances of Minerva for Domitian as Augustus and it copies the same type coined for him as Caesar under Titus the previous year. The reverse is a die match with the RIC plate coin.
A rare coin in lovely style and well centred. David AthertonApr 25, 2016
|
|
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.David AthertonApr 19, 2016
|
|
RIC 454 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.46g
Rome mint, 86 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIIII COS XII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 454 (R). BMC p. 320, note. RSC 208. BNC 103.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
This denarius from the rare fifth issue struck after mid September 86 at a time when Domitian's imperial acclamations were piling up rather quickly due to campaigns along the Danube. These issues tend to be superb in style and craftsmanship.
A nicely toned coin with a regal portrait. David AthertonApr 02, 2016
|
|
RIC 666 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.46g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XVIII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 666 (R2). BMC p. 331 note. RSC 247a. BNC -.
Acquired from Lancelot Coin Co., eBay, March 2016. Formerly in NGC holder 1948531-043.
A very rare denarius which records Domitian's 18th imperial acclamation, most likely struck in late 88. Imperial acclamations were coming fast and furious during the 88-89 time period, which is the primary means of differentiating the many various issues since Domitian did not take the consulship in 89. He was campaigning against the Dacians in 88 and presumably that is the likely explanation of the rapid succession of imperial acclamations during the time period. Those denarii with IMP XVIII are some of the rarest and were probably struck for just a few days. A military diploma dated 7 November, 88 records Domitian as IMP XVII, therefore this tiny issue must have been struck soon after that date at the end of 88 and/or very early in 89. RIC speculates mid December 88.
A nice solid denarius in good metal and fine style.
David AthertonMar 31, 2016
|
|
RIC 058 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.24g
Rome mint, 81 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 58 (C). BMC 11. RSC 560. BNC 28.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, March 2016. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
Domitian's devotion to his patron deity Minerva can be detected quite early in his reign on the coinage. This reverse design struck in late 81 would later become one of the standard four Minerva types he would repeat over and over again on the denarius.
In fine early veristic style and beautifully toned with rainbow highlights.David AthertonMar 22, 2016
|
|
RIC 685 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.19g
Rome mint, 89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva adv. r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 685 (C2). BMC 158. RSC 257. BNC 152.
Late in 89 Domitian was voted a double triumph over the Chatti and the Dacians. This common denarius struck between mid September and 31 December records Domitian's 21st imperial acclamation, the culmination of the two campaigns. This large issue was likely struck for a donative paid out to the troops.
A conventional third period portrait in good style.David AthertonFeb 02, 2016
|
|
RIC 099 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT COS VIII P P; Minerva stg. l., with Victory and spear; at feet, shield
RIC 99 (R). BMC 25. RSC 592a. BNC -.
Acquired from Pars Coins, eBay, 20 January 2016.
A rare coin that is part of the first issue of 82, but the last to be struck on the old standard. After this issue Domitian would increase the fineness and weight of the denarius as part of a coinage reform. Minerva and Victory did not become one of the standard Minerva types that were struck year after year until the end of the reign. It made its last appearance in this issue and is the scarcest type of the series.
Struck with new dies in superb veristic style. A really beautiful denarius showcasing the fine technical and artistic craftsmanship of the Rome mint.David AthertonJan 28, 2016
|
|
RIC 095 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.03g
Rome mint, 82 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT COS VIII P P; Curule chair, wreath above
RIC 95 (C). BMC 28A. RSC 595. BNC -.
Acquired from Lucernae, eBay, December 2015.
Coined at the very beginning of 82, just before Domitian overhauled the mint and increased the fineness of the denarius. The type is a continuation of the 'pulvinaria' series, most likely struck as a stop-gap until the mint master finished preparations for the new reverse designs.
In good early veristic style with a rich dark tone.David AthertonDec 31, 2015
|
|
RIC 772 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.48g
Rome mint, 95 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear, shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 772 (C2). BMC 224. RSC 287. BNC 202.
Acquired from Cerberus Ancient Coins, December 2015.
Domitian held the consulship in 95, which dates this denarius between 1 January and 13 September of that year. Flavian specialist Brian Jones speculates that during 95/96 Domitian waged a campaign against the Iazyges in the vicinity of Singidunum. This military activity may account for the large issues of denarii struck during the final years of the reign. Admittedly, tying denarius issues to military campaigns is guess work at best.
The engravers in the last couple of years of Domitian's reign sometimes depicted his portrait with a slight upward tilt. Harold Mattingly described these portraits as 'eyes to heaven'. This coin shows it quite well. David AthertonDec 29, 2015
|
|
RIC 735 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.56g
Rome mint, 92 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P; Minerva adv r., with spear and shield (M1)
RIC 735 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, December 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
This coin is from a very rare issue struck towards the end of summer 92 and can be dated by the TR P XI and IMP XXII, an exceedingly rare combination. A few dies with IMP XXI were altered with an additional 'I', which can be seen here squeezed before COS on the reverse. Perhaps word of the new imperial acclamation reached the mint the same day this coin was struck.
Well centered with an above average portrait. Nicely toned too.David AthertonDec 22, 2015
|
|
RIC 725 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.29g
Rome mint, 91 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XI; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XV CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r., on capital of rostral column, with spear and sheild; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 725 (C). BMC 183. RSC 270. BNC 171.
This common denarius was struck between mid September and 31 December 91. A noticeable dip in both the quality and style of some of Domitian's denarii started to appear in the early 90s. The rigorous high consistency of only just a few years prior had been replace by a more 'roughshod' appearance in some of the coins, reminiscent of denarii struck very early in his reign, however, the fineness remained at a higher level. This coin is a good example of the more relaxed standard, not fine, but not outright crude. Evidence of a large issue where many engravers had to be employed, some less talented than others!
A decent coin struck on a crowded flan in fair style.
David AthertonDec 01, 2015
|
|
RIC 344 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.20g
Rome mint, 85 AD (fifth issue)
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 stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 344 (R2). BMC -. RSC 186. BNC 87.
Ex CNG E363, 11 November 2015, lot 319.
An extremely rare denarius from the fifth issue of 85. Coined shortly after Domitian reduced the fineness of the denarius by 5% to the old Neronian level after having raised it in 82 to the Augustan standard. RIC cites Paris and Oxford with examples of this type.
Struck on a large flan (21 mm!) in superb fine style.
David AthertonNov 17, 2015
|
|
RIC 186 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.48g
Rome mint, 84 AD (second issue)
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG GERMANIC; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: P M TR POT III IMP V COS X P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her side (M3)
RIC 186 (R2). BMC 48. RSC 352. BNC 47.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, November 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
In 82 AD when Domitian overhauled the mint and increased the fineness of the denarius, he also apparently brought in new engravers who began working in a more elaborate, idealised style. Two years later that new style came into full bloom, as can be seen on this gorgeous example from the second issue of 84. All of the coins from 84 are quite scarce due to both Gresham's law and the low rate of production. Much experimentation was going on at the mint at this time with reverse types, busts, and style. I assume the amount of time an engraver spent on rendering these highly polished pieces was considerable, which could perhaps explain why they were not struck more commonly.
The aegis draped over the left shoulder along with the icy regal portrait makes for a most compelling piece. Struck on a large flan (21 mm!) this is a very impressive coin in hand.David AthertonNov 09, 2015
|
|
RIC 676 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.98g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD (sixth issue)
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XXI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. l., with thunderbolt and spear; shield at her l. side (M3)
RIC 676 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC 151.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015.
TRP VIII and IMP XXI is a very scarce dating combination on Domitian's denarii. The rarity of the dating indicates it was most likely struck for a short period of time, perhaps only for a few weeks or days prior to 14 September 89, upon which Domitian became TRP VIIII. The first Pannonian War would account for the rapid succession of imperial acclamations during this time period.
A good, solid portrait and well centered strike. Notable personally as the first coin from this issue I have acquired.
David AthertonOct 31, 2015
|
|
RIC 169 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.44g
Rome mint, 83 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR POT II COS VIIII DES X P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 169 (R). BMC p. 307 note. RSC 601. BNC 42.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
Domitian was very concerned about the quality of his coinage. In 82 AD he restored the fineness of the denarius to the levels of Augustus, striking them in nearly 100% silver. This coin from 83 was produced soon after the new standard was introduced. The portrait style is somewhere between the earlier veristic style seen in the first few months of the reign and the more elaborate, idealised style the engravers employed from 84 onward. This issue is also significant because it introduces for the first time the four standard Minerva types that would dominate the reverse of the denarius until the end of the reign.
Struck in fine style on a large flan. The scrape on the cheek isn't so noticeable in hand.David AthertonOct 20, 2015
|
|
RIC 339 DomitianAR Denarius, 2.82g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P; Minverva stg. l., with spear (M4)
RIC 339 (R2). BMC 80. RSC 180a. BNC 83.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, October 2015. Ex Jyrki Muona Collection.
A denarius which is part of the rare fourth issue of 85. This issue is the first struck after Domitian reduced the fineness of the denarius by 5% to the old Neronian level after having raised it in 82 to the Augustan standard. Despite the reduction in fineness this is a remarkably well crafted series signified by the aegis, which only appeared in issues of special note.
A well executed portrait in fine style. Struck on an oblong flan which does not detract too much from the coin's overall appeal.David AthertonOct 12, 2015
|
|
| 296 files on 4 page(s) |
2 | |
|
|
