David Atherton Posted August 7, 2023 · Member Share Posted August 7, 2023 (edited) The Flavian denarii struck at the mysterious 'o' mint in Asia Minor are quite coveted by Flavian collectors for their rarity and fine style. My latest addition is possibly a second known specimen from the mint. VespasianAR Denarius, 2.87g Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., a small 'o' mint mark below neck Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l RIC 1480 (R3). BMC -. BNC -. RSC -. RPC -. Ex Harlan J Berk, MBS 224, lot 126. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. The infamous 'o' mint denarii struck for Vespasian, Titus Caesar, and Domitian Caesar are thought to have been minted at Ephesus due to a similar 'o' mint mark previously used at that mint. The types are the same as those struck somewhat contemporaneously at Rome. Mules are a hallmark of the series, perhaps indicating a lack of care in their production, although the style is generally quite fine. This Vespasian denarius features a reverse that was originally struck for Domitian Caesar at Rome. The variety is listed as unique in RIC (citing the Jack Benedict Coll. which shares the same dies), this is possibly the second known specimen. Although it is likely a mule combining an obverse of Vespasian with a reverse intended for Domitian, the type has yet to be attested for Domitian at this mint! An unusual oversight considering the type commemorates Domitian's role in the Jewish War Triumph of 71. Here it is in hand. And here is a Domitian Caesar Rome mint example of the type. Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Denarius, 3.46g Rome mint, 73 AD Obv: CAES AVG F DOMIT COS II; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r. Rev: No legend; Domitian on horse l.; r. hand raised, sceptre in l. RIC 541 (R2). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -. Ex Gemini X, 13 January 2013, Harry N. Sneh Collection, lot 701. = Helios, ebay, 29 November 2010 (A. Lynn Collection). As always, thanks for looking! Edited August 7, 2023 by David Atherton 12 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Prieure de Sion Posted August 7, 2023 · Member Share Posted August 7, 2023 1 minute ago, David Atherton said: The Flavian denarii struck at the mysterious 'o' mint in Asia Minor are quite a coveted by Flavian collectors for their rarity and fine style. My latest addition is possibly a second known specimen from the mint. That's what I call an interesting coin - and visually appealing as well. Congratulations. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rand Posted August 7, 2023 · Supporter Share Posted August 7, 2023 Nice coin! The first photo does not show the beauty of the coin well. The video does a much better job. Within the Berk dynasty, Shanna Schmidt makes the best and really stunning photos (and charges accordingly) https://www.shannaschmidt.com/roman-empire/vespasian-69-79-ad-rome 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Conduitt Posted August 7, 2023 · Supporter Share Posted August 7, 2023 (edited) Really nice portrait. You can look deeper into it and see more. 1 hour ago, Rand said: Within the Berk dynasty, Shanna Schmidt makes the best and really stunning photos (and charges accordingly) https://www.shannaschmidt.com/roman-empire/vespasian-69-79-ad-rome Yes Shanna Schmidt's coins are photographed weightless on the moon to really get that 'billionaire gift' look. 🤣 Edited August 7, 2023 by John Conduitt 1 1 2 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
David Atherton Posted August 8, 2023 · Member Author Share Posted August 8, 2023 14 hours ago, John Conduitt said: Really nice portrait. You can look deeper into it and see more. Yes Shanna Schmidt's coins are photographed weightless on the moon to really get that 'billionaire gift' look. 🤣 Makes me glad my coin wasn't given the 'billionaire gift' treatment. 😅 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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