EGYPT, Alexandria. Domitius Domitianus. Usurper, AD 297-298. Potin Octadrachm (23mm, 13.10 g, 12h). Dated RY 2 (AD 297/298). ΔOMITI ANOC CЄB, radiate head right / Serapis standing right, raising right arm, holding scepter with left; palm frond to left, L B (date) across field. Köln 3367 var. (position of date); Dattari (Savio) 10821; K&G 126.2 var. (same); Emmett 4241.2. Black surfaces with reddish earthen deposits, thin die break on obverse. VF. Rare.
The revolt of Domitius Domitianus in Egypt destabilized a vitally strategic region by interrupting the grain supply to Rome and opening the possibility of a Persian (Sasanian) invasion. For almost a year, Domitius Domitianus controlled Alexandria and its mint, striking aurei and folles, as well as a series of pre-reform provincial denominations.