RIC 1480 Vespasian Mule

AR Denarius, 2.87g
Ephesus (?) mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r., '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 BBS 224, 14 September 2023, 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 mule 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 fourth 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 reverse commemorates Domitian's role in the Jewish War Triumph of 71.