Egypt. Alexandria. Aurelian AD 270-275. Dated RY 1=AD 270/1 Potin Tetradrachm

Egypt, Alexandria – Aurelian (AD 270–275)

Potin Tetradrachm, Dated RY 1 = AD 270/271

During the brief reign of Aurelian, the mint of Alexandria in Roman Egypt continued its long‑standing production of potin tetradrachms, a debased alloy of bronze with minimal silver content.

A Regnal Year 1 (RY 1) issue dates this coin to AD 270/271, the first year of Aurelian’s rule.

Typical features include:

Obverse: Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Aurelian to the right.

Reverse: A variety of Alexandrian deities or personifications (such as Eagle, Nike, Elpis, Dikaiosyne, etc.), accompanied by the regnal year mark—usually the Greek letter Α (alpha) for Year 1—placed in the field or exergue.

Metal & Style: Struck in potin, often with a dark, rough surface; flans are broad and usually show the characteristic Alexandrian fabric.

Context: These coins were part of Egypt’s closed monetary system, distinct from imperial silver and bronze circulating elsewhere in the empire.