Bronze Coin - AE AS, Ancient Rome, c. 81-96 AD.
Emperor: Domitian
Obv: Laureate Bust of Domitian, right.
Rev: ''MONETA AVGVSTI SC'' - Moneta standing left w/ scales and cornucopiae.
Mint: Rome (90-91 AD) (Sear 2807) (28mm, 11.79gm)
Glossy dark patina !
The son of Vespasian and the younger brother of Titus, his two predecessors on the throne, Titus Flavius Domitianus was the last member of the Flavian dynasty. As Emperor, Domitian strengthened the economy by revaluing the Roman coinage, expanded the border defenses of the Empire, and initiated a massive building program to restore the damaged city of Rome. Significant wars were fought in Britain, where his general Agricola attempted to conquer Caledonia (Scotland), and in Dacia, where Domitian was unable to procure a decisive victory against king Decebalus.
Domitian's government exhibited totalitarian characteristics; he saw himself as the new Augustus, an enlightened despot destined to guide the Roman Empire into a new era of brilliance. Religious, military, and cultural propaganda fostered a cult of personality, and by nominating himself perpetual censor, he sought to control public and private morals. As a consequence, Domitian was popular with the people and army but considered a tyrant by members of the Roman Senate. Domitian's reign ended in 96 when he was assassinated by court officials. He was succeeded the same day by his advisor Nerva
