Second period, Augustan
standard, 82-85 A.D.
111. Silver denarius, 19mm, 3.5g, 82-83A.D. RIC 40, Carradice 82-83a
IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M, laur. head r.
IVPPITER CONSERVATOR, eagle standing right, head left, on thunderbolt.
This reverse type commemorates the events during the civil war of 69 A.D. Upon the arrival of the flavian troops in Italy,
Sabinus (the elder brother of Vespasian) was forced to seek refuge in the Capitoline fortress (the sanctuary of Jupiter). He also brought in Domitian, his nephew. Eventually the fortress was set on fire and Sabinus captured and executed. Domitian
managed to escape and found shelter at one of his father's clients. Later in
that place he built a temple for Jupiter Conservator (= the Protector). Source:
Tacitus, Histories, the 3rd book,
section LXXIV : "Domitianus.....ac
potiente rerum patre, disiecto aeditui contubernio, modicum sacellum Iovi
Conservatori aramque posuit casus suos in marmore expressam).
BACK
