In late summer 92 AD an issue of denarii were struck for Domitian with an exceedingly rare dating combination of TR P XI and IMP XXII. 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. The acclamation was likely awarded for victories against the Suebi and Sarmatians near the close of the campaigning season. The issue could not have been minted after September 14th when Domitian became TR P XII. Domitian AR Denarius Rome mint, 92 AD RIC 735 (R2), BMC - , RSC - 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) Please post your altered dies!
It's fascinating to imagine that such a small detail could actually narrow the date of mintage down to a particular day!
Also what is really interesting is the fact the mint master had the reverse die reengraved instead of producing a brand new die. Perhaps news of the new salutation reached the mint in the middle of the day and they immediately began striking the new IMP number and had no time to engrave new dies.
that's interesting V70, pretty easy to figure out which element was added last minute when you know to look for one. i don't think i have any alter die coin.
I'm sure experienced ancient engravers made quick work of their dies, but even so, it would have been a tedious process. One simply wouldn't toss out a die that was finished and ready to use, if a minor alteration could update it. It should also be mentioned that the OP coin is lovely, even without the added interest in the inscription.
A subject I am still investigating is the recutting of one particular Septimius Emesa die used to strike my favorite coin. It appears that the first cut used C for S in SEP SEV but they were altered. I am not sure if the on I have that looks like a C is before the alteration or a sign of die wear that erased the change. The coins below are die links. I believe there was work on the die between them.
I don't believe I have any of the 'altered' types, but I find yours fascinating 'V' Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to ALL!!!!
