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1/4 Birr - Haile Selassie I Pattern
| Issuer | Ethiopia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1929 |
| Type | Coin pattern |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Left-facing draped bust of Haile Selassie I, depicted wearing an elaborate imperial crown adorned with intricate filigree and surmounted by a cross, with a pendant earring visible and richly ornamented robes. A small cross is visible at the chest. Ge'ez legends appear to the left and right of the effigy, with an additional inscription along the lower field. The portrait is rendered in high relief with fine engraved detail throughout the regalia and garments. |
|---|---|
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| Edge | Reeded |
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| Additional information |
This 1929 pattern was struck as part of Haile Selassie's currency modernization program initiated shortly after he became Regent and heir apparent — a political project aimed at consolidating monetary authority ahead of his formal coronation in 1930. Pattern pieces in nickel from this period were produced in small numbers at European mints, likely Paris or Vienna, for approval purposes and were never released for circulation. The series was ultimately shelved; circulating Ethiopian coinage of this denomination continued in silver.