Coin, Egypt, Domitius Domitianus
Octodrachm - 297-298 - Alexandria - EF(40-45)
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Radiate head right.
Sarapis standing right, wearing kalathos, raising his right arm in salute, holding transverse scepter with his left hand and arm; palm frond to right, L B (date) to left.
Domitius Domitianus was a usurper who took control of Alexandria from July 296 to March 297 and minted aurei and follis, as well as a series of provincial denominations in his name, as emperor. The loss of Egypt destabilizes seriously the supplies of wheat of Rome, putting it seriously in danger. Diocletian finally took over the province and executed Domitius, closing the colonial mint and replacing it with an imperial mint. Nice green patina, some scratches on the bust. Dattari 10830, Emmett 4241.2. From the Conti Collection.
12.16 gr
An “EF(40-45)” quality
As in numismatics it is important that the state of conservation of an item be carefully evaluated before it is offered to a discerning collector with a keen eye.
This initially obscure acronym comprising two words describing the state of conservation is explained clearly here:
Extremely Fine
This means – more prosaically – that the coin has circulated well from hand to hand and pocket to pocket but the impact on its wear remains limited: the coins retains much of its mint luster, sharp detailing and little sign of being circulated. Closer examination with the naked eye reveals minor scratches or nicks.
