Lot 4208
Domitius Domitianus, ca. AD 296-298. AE Follis (8.5g) minted at Alexandria. Third officina.Laureate head right of the rebel. Reverse: Genius standing left holding a patera and cornucopiae; eagle at his feet; Γ in right field. RIC 20 var; Sear 12980. Deep glossy tan-brown patina with some earthen green. Very rare. Choice Very Fine.
Other than some minor references in papyri and contemporary writings of the time, we have no substantive information on this enigmatic ruler, and what little we know is gleaned in good part from his coinage. Rebellion broke out in Egypt in either AD 296 or AD 297. Some historians have linked the uprising with aggression on the part of the Sasanian king Narses who attacked Armenia and threatened Syria in AD 296, then resoundingly defeated Galerius, who had been sent by Diocletian. Other historians, though, believe the Egyptian rebellion began first and gave impetus and opportunity to the Sasanian aggressions. There were surely multiple causes driving the revolt in Egypt; but heavy taxation and social and commercial stagnation under Roman rule were leading factors.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 1,400.
Ex Wolfen Family Foundation, purchased from Numismatic Fine Arts, early 1970s.
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| Realized $2,185 |
