Domitian AR Denarius 81 CE (Group 4)

Domitian AR denarius 81 CE (Group 4)

18 mm 3.16 g

Obv: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG PM; Head laureate right

Rev: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P; Seat draped above winged thunderbolt.

RIC 72 (R2).

Lazooro on Delcampe January 11, 2019

This coin is rare because of the Obverse legend. There are very few types that use this legend. Though Group 4 denarii are generally not rare, this one is an exception. I consider myself very lucky to have found 3 of these for my collection. I really like the first year denarii of Domitian.

There are several mysteries associated with these denarii. How did the mint turn out the coins of Domitian so quickly after the unexpected death of his brother Titus? Why do some obverse legends include TR P but some do not?

I do not have all of the answers but I am enjoying the investigation.