A Somewhat Scarce Alexandrian Diobol

[David Atherton]

This isn't a super rare coin, but scarce enough to warrant some attention. Additionally, it doesn't hurt that it has a decent amount of eye appeal and a stylish portrait of Vespasian.

 

Vespasian
Æ Diobol, 6.86g
Alexandria mint, 75-76 AD
Obv: ΑΥΤΟΚ ΚΑΙΣΑΡΟΣ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΥ; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ΣΕΒΑΣΤΟΥ, L Η; Bust of Alexandria, r.
RPC 2452 (3 spec.). Emmett 215.8. Dattari-Savio 369.
Ex Taters Relics, eBay, 11 September 2024.

An Alexandrian diobol struck for Vespasian featuring a rare obverse legend used only for this variety in regnal year 8. The reverse features the personification of the city of Alexandria wearing an elephant headdress, a common type for the mint during the Flavian era. The elephant headdress was associated with Alexander the Great because of his conquest of India.

In hand.

 

As always, thank you for looking!

[CPK]

Great coin! It's rare to find an Alexandrian AE in such nice condition.