Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Domitian

Add to album

This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Domitian in 85 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, the goddess of wisdom and war, wearing a helmet and holding a spear. The inscription around her, 'P M TR POT IIII IMP VIII COS XI P P' with bars over the IIII and VIII, is an abbreviated list of Domitian's titles and the number of years they were renewed.

The idea of a contract between human beings and the gods was central to Roman religious practice. Individuals had favourite deities, and worshipped them with special offerings. Minerva was the favourite of Domitian, and he depicted her on coins he issued in gold, silver and bronze.

Record details

To search on related items, click any underlined text below.

• Online ID: 000-180-001-493-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted in 85 AD
  
• Material:
• Dimensions:
• What:
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where:
• Event:
• Description:
• References:
  • Mattingly, Harold and Sydenham, Edward A. The Roman Imperial Coinage. Vol. II. Vespasian to Hadrian. London: Spink & Son, Ltd, 1926. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: