RIC 164 Domitian

AR Denarius, 3.35g
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. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 164 (R2). BMC 41. RSC 606. BNC 39.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.

Minted between March and 13 September 83 AD, this denarius is part of a series that introduced the four main Minerva reverse types that would dominate the denarii of the reign. The type here, Minerva on rostral column (not prow as normally described), makes it debut as well.

82 saw an increased fineness of the precious metal coinage to Augustan standards, which explains this specimens size and weight - 21 mm, 3.35 grams. A bit of corrosion on the obverse does not detract from a wonderful coin in hand.

Historical note - Mons Graupius, Agricola's climatic battle in Scotland, most likely occurred in the fall of 83 soon after this coin was minted.