Bits & Pieces... by David Sundman

Ancient Error Coin

 

The Roman coin shown here with the error legend "DOMITINVS" is an example of a tired old die cutter's misspelling of "DOMITIANVS." In this example, the "A" has been left out. I wonder if Emperor Domitian (A.D. 69-96) allowed the die cutter to keep his head? "Fraon."

While an error like this would be a significant design mistake on a U.S. coin, with so few error collectors of ancient coins, the coin is without any added significant value! However, I am keeping it for our reference collection as a curiosity. I doubt I could easily find another.

Roman coin with error legend DOMITINVS

DOMITINVS: In this legend the "a" in DOMITIANUS is missing