This portrait of the Empress Domitia shows clearly one of the many elaborate hairstyles so popular at Rome at the time and depicted in loving detail not only on the coinage but also in portrait sculpture (see Fittschen K. and Zanker P. Katalog der römischen Porträts in den Capitolinischen Museen, Mainz am Rhein 1983, vol III, especially no.63)
The peacock, the bird of the Goddess Juno, symbolised conjugal concord since Juno presided over marriages. It is doubtful if Domitia was deceived by this piece of flattery. Domitian had recently divorced her and was living with Julia, his brother's daughter. Though a reconciliation of sorts had taken place, the Emperor did not leave off his incestuous relationship, but even issued coins with Julia's portrait also depicting a peacock on the reverse. Domitia had her revenge. She successfully plotted her husband's murder in A.D.96, retired into private life, and survived until A.D.150 when she died at a very advanced age