Lot 4215
Domitius Alexander, AD 308-310. AE Follis (4.89g) minted at Carthage, AD 308-310. Usurper in North Africa. IMP ALEXANDER P F AVG. Laureate head right of bearded Alexander. Reverse: AFR - IC - A AVG N. Africa standing facing, head left, wearing elephant headdress, holding standard in right hand, elephant's tusk in left; at feet to left, lion; in exergue, PK. Sear 15080; RIC 64. Uniform reddish-brown patina. Extremely Rare. Nearly Extremely Fine.
This very rare follis of the North African usurper Domitius Alexander (AD 308-310) was issued at his capital city of Carthage, the only mint that he controlled. The reverse has a personification of Africa holding a military standard and a large elephant's tusk. This short-lived usurper came to power at a time of great complexity in the politics of the Empire's western provinces. A reluctant participant in the power struggle, Alexander was persuaded by Maximian and his son-in-law Constantine to raise the standards of rebellion against Maxentius, who controlled Italy and Africa. The consequent interruption in Rome's vital grain supply threatened famine in the city and undermined Maxentius' regime. However, after two years, Alexander was defeated by Maxentius' praetorian prefect Rufius Volusianus, and the grain supply was restored. This was only a temporary reprieve for Maxentius, as in AD 312 he was overthrown by Constantine who defeated him in battle just outside Rome.
Estimated Value $7,000 - 9,000.
The Hunter Collection; Ex Leu 30, 28 April 1982, lot 471; Giuseppe Mazzini Collection, 1.
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| Realized $10,638 |
