Domitian AR Denarius 81CE

Domitian, Denarius, 81 Rome (Group 1)

(18mm 3.36g)

Obv: Laureate head of Domitian right., IMP CAESAR DOMITIANVS AVG

Rev: Dolphin coiled around anchor.,

RIC: 2 (R); BMC 3 RSC 551

Purchased from Savoca 82nd Silver auction July 26, 2020 Lot 315

Though I already had one of these, the very nice reverse meant I had to have this one too. This is a very early coin for Domitian as Augustus. Notice the short reverse legend which consists of only the TR P and COS titles. The supposition is that this coin was struck before the other titles of Domitian were awarded. I find this coin interesting for that reason. Of course I also quite like the portrait on this one. While not excessively rare this coin will be hard to find if you are directly looking for one. I love these first year denarii of Domitian and this one will be right at home in my collection.