This is my second example of this coin. This is a rare coin. Yes, I used the word rare, and yes I think it is appropriate. Left-facing busts of Domitian on his denarii are rare to next to impossible to purchase. No one knows why this is the case. Domitian's left-facing bronze issues are, as a type, not particularly rare. Left-facing denarii for Titus and Vespasian are sometimes rare and sometimes quite common. I have never found a convincing argument that explains this discrepancy. Confirming the rarity of this particular coin is the fact that everyone I have seen uses the same obverse die. This coin is rare, but not as rare as other left-facing denarii for Domitian. I have a few that are rarer than this coin. I happen to own RIC 597, a very rare coin. However, it is more special than that. My RIC 597 is the RIC plate coin. I also happen to own RIC 605. Mine is the second known and the only one in private hands. So, if you would like a left-facing denarius for Domitian you should buy one as soon as you see it. There is much competition for these. The coin below is the second one I have seen in 5 years and I bought that one too. Please share your favorite coins of Domitian. Thanks for reading. Domitian AR Denarius (81 CE) (Group 4) ( 3.05g) Obv: Laureate head left; IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG PM Rev: Tripod with fillets, Dolphin above; TR P COS VII DES VIII PP RIC 75 (R2) BMC Note p. 302 RSC 568d Purchased from Holger Siee on MA Shops
Congratulations Orfew! wow, 5 years, being a specialist requires patience. The reverse reminds of a reverse by Vitellius by the way. Any connection perhaps?
Congratulations on a rare find, and congratulations on owning an RIC plate coin! I wouldn't mind getting my hands on one of those.
It’s always great to see your posts @Orfew and congratulations on your find! Here is my left facing (but common) Domitian from Seleucia Pieria.
