I recently picked up this Domitian denarius for the simple reason I liked the reverse, which is pretty uncommon for him, and it compliments the tetradrachm I own of him. This was in an NGC slab as CH Fine & Ex. Morris Collection. Also below is the slab/sellers pic and my Tet. Domitian (81 - 96 A.D.) AR Denarius O: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M, laureate head of Domitian right. R: IVPPITER CONSERVATOR, eagle standing facing, head left, on thunderbolt, wings spread. Rome Mint, 82-83 A.D. 3.18g 19mm RIC II.1 144 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) Domitian (81 - 96 A.D.) SYRIA, Seleucis and Pieria. Antioch AR Tetradrachm O: AVT KAISAR DOMITIANOS SEB GERM, laureate head right; aegis at point of bust. R: ETOUS NEOV IEROV H, eagle standing facing right on thunderbolt; palm in right field. RY 8 (88/9 AD) 14.77g 26mm Prieur 145; RPC II 1978; Wruck 108
Very nice, Mat! It isn't a reverse I've seen of his before, and it certainly does present more like a provincial than imperial. And it does compliment your tet well. Nice pick up!
@Mat That is a lovely coin. In addition i love the provenance. For me the history of the coin is part of the story of history. I love adding coins that were owned by a know collector. Their stories, if preserved, add to the history of the coin. Your coin is one of my favourite reverses for Domitian. I love the Minerva series as well because I love finding misattributed coins in auctions and dealer stock. The multiple acclamations and numbering mean there are rare gems to be found. It is important to keep in mind that for some coins the acclamations signify the addition of titles because of victories in battles fought by Domitian. So the numbers refer to actual events. I find this fascinating. The portrait is well rendered on your coin and the eagle is amazing. This was a talented engraver. Congrats my friend on a great addition to you collection. Mine is below. I still have to remove the encrustations. I bought it for the fine portrait.
Great coins everyone. I've always loved this reverse for Domitian, and it took me a long time to find mine.