Catalogo
| Emittente | Aksum |
|---|---|
| Anno | 305-315 |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | |
| Valuta | |
| Composizione | Bronze |
| Peso | 2.68 g |
| Diametro | 15 mm |
| Spessore | 4 mm |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | MHAC#14 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Bust of Aphilas facing, wearing headcloth, draped; above, pellet on crescent; lettering starting by the final letter of the royal title. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | Greek |
| Legenda del dritto |
ΑΦΙΛΑC ΒΑCΙΛЄΥC (Translation: Aphilas, King [...]) |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Small bust to right, wearing headcloth ending with triangular ribbon behind, draped; above, pellet on crescent dividing the lettering. |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio |
ΑξѠΜΙΤѠΝ ΒΙCΙ ΔΙΜΗΛΗ (Translation: [...] of Aksum, man of Dimele) |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (305-315) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1280009700 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This Æ15 bronze coin belongs to Aphilas, an early Aksumite king reigning circa 305-315 CE. Aphilas is a pivotal figure in Aksumite numismatic history, being among the first monarchs to issue coinage. His issues precede the Christianization of Aksum under Ezana, and his coins frequently display the pre-Christian crescent and disc symbol, reflecting indigenous religious beliefs during this nascent period of its monetary economy. This coin signifies Aksum's growing regional influence and economic sophistication.
Artistry: The engraver of this piece remains anonymous, typical for ancient Aksumite coinage. The stylistic school draws upon late Roman and Hellenistic influences but distinctly integrates local Aksumite iconography. The obverse typically features a diademed or crowned bust of Aphilas, often facing right, while the reverse commonly displays the prominent crescent and disc symbol, a hallmark of pre-Christian Aksumite belief, sometimes accompanied by a legend. The overall design conveys royal authority and religious symbolism.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 2.68 grams and measuring 15 millimeters, this bronze coin exhibits characteristics common to early Aksumite bronzes. High-points susceptible to wear typically include the king's facial features, diadem, and the central elements of the crescent and disc motif. Technical strike quality can vary; Aksumite bronzes often show irregular flan shapes or off-centring, and strikes may be less precise than contemporary Roman issues. The fabric is generally robust but can appear crude, impacting the clarity of finer details.