Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Domitian

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.

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Online ID:	000-180-001-493-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0504: National Museums Scotland Part 2 Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland
Date:	Minted in 85 AD
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References:	Mattingly, Harold and Sydenham, Edward A. The Roman Imperial Coinage. Vol. II. Vespasian to Hadrian. London: Spink & Son, Ltd, 1926.
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