The postman delivered another dandy Domitian denarius over the weekend. Domitian AR Denarius Rome mint, 83 AD RIC 169 (R), BMC p. 307 note , RSC 601 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) 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. The coins from this second issue of 83 are all quite rare. I love this portrait with it's characteristic overbite and protruding chin. The scrape on Domitian's cheek isn't so noticeable in hand.
Does not bother me that there is a scrape on the cheek. An excellent piece considering the age and little wear over the coin.
I do too 'V'---I somehow suspect that is the more likely portrait of the actual man. Remember all those RR and early Imperial coins...... and portrait sculptures that depict the individual literally 'warts and all'?? A terrific addition!!!!
I didn't even notice the scrape until you pointed it out. I was too busy admiring the excellent style.
Another lovely coin David. The scrape does not bother me either, it just adds interest to an already stunning portrait.
