IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XI, laureate head right / IMP XXI COS XVI CENS P P P, Minerva standing left, holding thunderbolt and spear, shield at her foot. 19mm, 3.35 grams. Rome mint, minted 91 CE. RIC 726; RSC 268.

Emperor Domitian (51–96 AD) was the last ruler of the Flavian dynasty, reigning from 81 to 96 AD. The son of Vespasian and brother of Titus, he strengthened the Roman economy, expanded the empire’s borders, and reinforced the empire’s defenses. Domitian was an autocratic ruler who centralized power, promoted public works, and emphasized religious and moral reforms. However, his rule became increasingly repressive, marked by persecution of senators and perceived enemies. His authoritarian style led to widespread opposition, and he was ultimately assassinated in a palace conspiracy. Despite his controversial reign, later historians recognized his administrative and military achievements.