Ancient Roman very rare coins are generally unaffordable, when they are official imperial coins, and not, of course, mere mules. But there are provincial coins too and, because they were minted in much smaller quantities, they can easily be rare today. Being much less sought after than imperial coins, rare or sometimes unique provincial coins may be acquired for very moderate prices. In my own modest collection I could find at least 3 provincial bronzes which are one of only two known specimens. Julia Domna, Byblus. The only other known specimen is in the American University of Beirut collection, but no photo has been published. I sent a picture of mine with the weight, diameter, orientation, etc. to the Roman Provincial Coins project. Elagabalus, Edessa. RPC VI, 7748 (temporary). Only one other specimen known, in the British Museum collection. I should send the pics of my specimen to the RPC project. Volusian, Perge. The only other known specimen was in a 2019 Leu sale. It's a double die match. Feel free to post your own very rare Roman provincial coins, 1, 2 or 3 known specimens... I'm pretty sure there are some.
You are completely correct - if there is one area where the bargains remain incredible it is provincials - especially bronzes, although silver/billon coins of Alexandria are pretty reasonable too. It is possible to find - I can't recall the name - it is Greek for five I think - approx 27mm coins with perfect patina struck in the Balkans from the reign of Septimius to Phillip for incredible prices. I was just speaking to someone about how for less than $20, with a lot of knowledge and diligence it is possible to build a terrific collection of ancients that will include examples that are fascinating, beautiful and unique - and even silver. It just takes patience and knowledge - and spending time both learning and searching. For those on a larger budget it is possible to find wonderful provincial coins. For example, check out the Aurelian I previously posted on this site - sorry I don't have another photo -perfect condition, perfect patina, about $375 - or this 37.5mm "medallion" of Elagabalus for less (no idea who that countermark is):
Let me quickly add that there is no need to go anywhere near $375 to buy beautiful provincials - many MANY cities struck may many amazing coins in huge quantities.
This provincial is from a multiple lot that I bought recently. Don't think it's rare least of all very rare, but I think it is very appealing and all the legends are clear. Samosata's ruins were at today's city of Samsat, Adiyaman Province, Turkey until the site was flooded in 1990 by the Atatürk Dam. The extensive Roman city was never explored or excavated! Most coins from Samosata are from the reign of Philip I (244-249 AD). Pegasos on late coins of Samosata is a symbol of the city. Philip I the Arab AE 33 Syria, Commagene, Samosata, first half of 244 - end of September 249 AD. 23.22 g, 6h RPC VIII, unassigned number, ID 8348; BMC (Catalogue of the Greek Coins of Galatia, Cappadocia,and Syria, p. 122) 51; SGI (Sear) 3953. Ob.: AVTOK K M IOVΛI ΦIΛIΠΠOC CEB radiate, bust of Philippus to r. with paludamentum and cuirass. Border of dots. Rev.: ΦΛ CAMOCATEΩN MHTΡO KOM Tyche of Samosata seated to l. on rock, holding ears of wheat in r. hand, eagle seated on her r. arm. Pegasus flying to left at her feet. Border of dots.
