RIC 446 Domitian

AR Denarius, 3.09g
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. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 446 (R2). BMC 96. RSC 204c. BNC -.
Ex Andrew Short Collection, purchased from Kölner, June 2021.

A very rare M2 type 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, probably produced for just a few short weeks at the end of September. Imperial acclamations were awarded to Domitian at a fairly quick pace during 86 because of the Dacian campaign with many issues being struck rather briefly before news arrived of a new imperial salutation. The portrait is of an extremely fine style typical of Domitian's coinage during this time period. Hints of iridescent toning add to the piece's appeal.