EGYPT. Alexandria. Domitian, 81-96. Obol (Bronze, 19 mm, 4.00 g, 1 h), RY 11 = 92/3. AYT KAICAP ΔOMIT CЄB ΓЄPM Laureate head of Domitian to right. Rev. L IA Sphinx reclining to right. Dattari (Savio) 570. Emmett 326/11. K&G 24.181. RPC II 2645. Very rare and in exceptional condition for the issue. With a wonderful reverse that ranks among the finest known representations of the Sphinx on the Alexandrian coinage. Struck from somewhat worn obverse die, and surfaces a little rough, otherwise, very fine.



While many Alexandrian coins adhered to Greco-Roman motifs, they were also infused with distinctively Egyptian elements, such as local deities, canopi, and temples. One of the most striking reverse types in this regard is undoubtedly the sphinx. Though the winged sphinx was already familiar from Greek tragedy and coin iconography, the sphinx on our coin is distinctly more Egyptian in style - and male, unlike the Greek sphinx - immediately evoking the Great Sphinx of Giza. Whether this specific monument is depicted remains uncertain; the nearby Great Pyramids never appeared on Alexandrian coins, and sphinxes were widespread across Egypt (for instance, the dromos connecting the temples of Karnak and Luxor was lined with smaller sphinxes). Nevertheless, the impressive portrayal of the sphinx on Alexandrian coinage reflects Rome’s appreciation, perhaps even admiration, of Egypt’s monumental art.