Aureus - Domitian COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC

The legend COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC dates this aureus precisely to 88 AD, when Domitian celebrated the Ludi Saeculares — the Secular Games — a century-cycle festival last held under Claudius in 47 AD. Domitian moved the date forward to align with his own political calendar rather than the traditional 110-year Etruscan cycle, a manipulation that drew pointed criticism from contemporaries. The games themselves involved three nights of sacrifice and performance, drawing massive crowds to Rome.

RIC II.1 595 is a scarce type; the specific consular and games reference made it a short-lived issue tied to a single ceremonial moment.