minted in Rome
This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Domitian in 95 AD. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the reverse of the coin.
The reverse depicts Minerva, goddess of wisdom and war, standing on the prow of a ship, holding a shield and spear, with an owl at her feet. The inscription 'IMP XXII COS XVII CENS P P P' continues the list of titles held by Domitian, begun on the obverse of the coin.
The favourite goddess of Domitian was Minerva - a fitting choice for the emperor who led many military campaigns throughout the Empire. Increasingly brutal and unpopular in his reign, he held power due to the loyalty of the army.
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