Roman Empire  "Domitian"  Exceptional Detail Aureus  NGC  XF★ 5x5 

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ROMAN EMPIRE “DOMITIAN CAESAR” 81-96AD NGC XF* 5X5 AUREUS QUADRIGA GOLD AUGUSTUS Domitian was the 12th CAEASAR and the 2nd son of Vespasian. His older brother, Titus ruled just before him (for a short period). This variety is very special indeed. The obverse features Domitian Augustus, laureate right on Domitian. The reverse features the Quadriga (4 horse riga Chariot), with Domitian standing in chariot holding laurel branch in right hand and scepter in left; Victory on side of Chariot COX XIIII in emerge, Germanicus. The reverse depicts a double triumph against the German and victory over the Dacians in AD 89. Calico 837 BMCRE 144. VERY RARE. But what really make this piece in particular so special is that it is centered almost perfectly on both the Obverse and Reverse. Typically the name of the Emperor is shifted off the planchet, but not on this piece. Not only is his complete name visible but the Strike is Bold and Deep, as is the portrait! The same is true for the Reverse, here typically you see with even a 2 horse Biga that the Horses are blured together, especially their legs, but again, not on this piece – each leg is clearly separate and distinguished. Even Domitian holding the Laurel branch and Scepter is clearly visible. Even more rare is to see the beading (dots) being almost completely displayed on both the front and reverse. Again, this is a Very Rare variety, typically you see the reverse of this issue displaying the patron goddess Minerva. See next paragraph for a summary about Domitian. Domitian was born in 51AD son of a respected Senator and General (Vespasian). His father successfully seized and held the throne to conclude the civil wars of AD 68-69. As a young man, Domitian was overshadowed by his older brother Titus. When Titus died in AD 81, after only two years of rule, Domitian wasted no time in seizing power as the third emperor of the Flavian dynasty. Domitian pushed forward the frontiers and successfully led a number of campaigns against the Germans and over the Dacians.