Beschreibung

Aureus. AD 82, Rome. 5h
Obv. IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M, Laureate head of Domitian to right.
Rev. TR POT IMP II COS VIII DES VIIII P P, Bust of Minerva to left, wearing Corinthian helmet and aegis.
RIC 139; C 608; BMC 33 note; CBN 37; Calicó 937a.
Rare. A wonderful example with an excellent and early portrait. Some minor marks, otherwise, good very fine.
Ex. NFA Auction 1, 22 November 2024, Lot 186.

Minerva, the goddess of war, was the personal patron goddess of Domitian. He devoted much of his personal time and public funds for her worship. Domitian also kept a personal shrine in his living quarters. Minerva Minerva appears on the majority of his coins. Usually she appears standing. But on the reverse of this wonderful aureus her portrait is depicted.