Denarius - Domitian (IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva) (88-89) front Denarius - Domitian (IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva) (88-89) back
Denarius - Domitian (IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva) (88-89) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Domitian IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva

 
Silver 3.2 g 18.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Domitian (Titus Flavius Domitianus) (81-96)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
88-89
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.2 g
Diameter
18.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#252086
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Minerva standing right on top of rostral column, holding spear and shield; owl right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IMP XVI COS XIIII CENS P P P

Translation:
Imperator Sextum Decimum, Consul Quartum Decimum, Censor Perpetuus, Pater Patriae.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the 16th time, consul for the 14th time, censor for life, father of the nation.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.05–3.38 g;
Diameter varies: 18–18.5 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Minerva on the reverse, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Domitian. Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts, and was often depicted with an owl, which symbolized her association with wisdom and knowledge. The inclusion of Minerva on this coin may have been a way to emphasize the importance of wisdom and knowledge during Domitian's reign.