Catalogue
| Émetteur | Aksum |
|---|---|
| Année | 305-315 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | |
| Devise | |
| Composition | Gold (.800) plated silver (.650) (Selective gilt) |
| Poids | 0.98 g |
| Diamètre | 13.00 mm |
| Épaisseur | 2.00 mm |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | MHAC#10, Hahn Ak#8, BMC Aksum#12-19, SACAM#35-40, HCR#54125-54130 |
| Description de l’avers | Bust of Aphilas to right, wearing headcloth ornamented on front and ending with triangular ribbon behind; above, pellet on crescent dividing lettering. Border of dots. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Greek |
| Légende de l’avers |
ΑΦΙΛΑ ΒΑCΙΛΙ (Translation: King Aphilas) |
| Description du revers | Small bust of Aphilas to right, wearing headcloth ornamented on front and ending with triangular ribbon behind, within a hollow gilt circle; above, pellet on crescent dividing lettering. Border of dots. |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers |
ΑΦΙΛΑC ΒΑCΙΛΑЄΥCΙ (Translation: King Aphilas) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (305-315) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 4993677800 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: Issued by King Aphilas of Aksum (305-315 AD), this 1/2 AR Unit marks a pivotal era. Aphilas introduced gold coinage, signifying Aksum's economic sophistication and international trade. This silver fractional unit uniquely features selective gilding, applying 0.800 fine gold over a 0.650 fine silver core. This bimetallic appearance likely elevated its perceived value or specialized function, reflecting Aksum's advanced metallurgical prowess and burgeoning wealth.
Artistry: The coin's artistry follows Aksumite royal portraiture, emphasizing monarchical authority. The obverse presents a stylized bust of King Aphilas, often with a distinctive crown or diadem. The reverse typically displays dynastic or pre-Christian religious symbols. Selective gilding was a deliberate artistic choice, meticulously applied to highlight specific features of the royal portrait or reverse motif, enhancing its visual impact and prestige.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a 13.00 mm flan, weighing 0.98 grams, this coin exemplifies advanced metallurgy. Its defining technical feature is selective gilding, applying 0.800 fine gold to specific areas of the 0.650 fine silver core. High-points for grading include the king's crown, nose, and chin on the obverse, and central reverse elements. Strike quality varies, with irregular flans common. Preservation of the delicate gilding is paramount for higher grades, as wear significantly impacts its aesthetic and historical integrity.