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The youngest son of Vespasian, Domitian (51-96 AD) was raised studying rhetoric and literature. He exhibited a self-deprecating, often cryptic sense of humor and preferred solitude, perhaps because most of his immediate relatives died when he was still young.
Domitian was proclaimed Emperor upon his brother Titus' death in 81 AD. He embarked on ambitious economic, military and cultural programs to restore the Empire's prior splendor under Emperor Augustus. Domitian became personally involved in all branches of the administration. He issued edicts governing the smallest details of everyday life and law, and taxation and public morals were rigidly enforced.
Domitian's micromanagement style was evident in his financial policies, including steps to revalue Roman currency dramatically, and later devaluation in response to financial crisis. Coinage from this era displays a consistent degree of quality. For example, this coin (granted a prestigious Fine Style designation) bears a detailed observe portrait and reverse depiction of the Goddess Minerva, whom Domitian worshipped so zealously that he had a shrine dedicated to her in his bedroom.
One night Minerva appeared to him in a dream and confessed that Jupiter had disarmed her, and thus she could no longer protect her faithful and beloved emperor. Days later, in a palace conspiracy organized by court officials, Domitian was stabbed to death.
Coin Details: ROMAN EMPIRE, Domitian, AD 81-96, AR Denarius (3.55 g), struck 92-93 AD, NGC Grade: MS, Strike: 4/5, Surface: 5/5, Fine Style, Observe: Laureate head right, IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P XIII, Reverse: Minerva advancing right, holding spear and shield, IMP XXII COS XVI CENS P P P, References: RIC 739, RSC 280.