Ancient Flavian Forgery

Although I was hoping for a unique authentic denarius, I'm still happy to add this unusual eastern forgery. Thanks to Mr. Atherton for identifying the reverse that had me completely stumped!


Vespasian. AD 69-79. Fourrée Denarius (19mm, 3.48).
Obverse style and legend copying Ephesus mint denarii. Reverse copying extremely rare aureus from Antioch - RIC 1539
O: IMP CAES VESPAS AVG Laureate head right
R: PONT MAX – TRIB POT Pax seated r. on throne, holding olive branch and vertical scepter.

For some reason the forger decided to match a denarius obverse from Ephesus with an aureus reverse from Antioch.
Although the weight is good, the poor style, muling of types and a small chip on the reverse beneath the throne, that seems to reveal a base metal core, leads to the conclusion of a likely fourrée.

 

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For an Ancient forgery mule fouree (mouthful), this an a interesting coin. Now I want one like it and I don't particularly like fourees

 

Very odd portrait style.

The way both sides are slightly muddy looking could it be overstruck?

 

A unique and interesting coin.Congratulations on acquiring this piece.
David is very generous. He has helped me with Flavian coins on several occasions.

 

I don't think it's overstruck. I would say it looks more like poor workmanship and worn dies. I wonder how many of these were struck?

Thanks Orfew. Couldn't agree more with David's generosity!

 

I'm not actively looking for them either but this one is definitely in my wheelhouse.