Catalog
| Obverse description | Crowned bust of Ousanas to right, holding spear in right hand, flanked by wheat stalks, surrounded by lettering; disc on crescent above. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering |
ΟΥCΑΝΑC ΒΑCΙΛΥ C (Translation: King Ousanas) |
| Reverse description | Bust of Ousanas to right, wearing headcloth, holding whisk in right hand, flanked by wheat stalks, surrounded by lettering; disc on crescent above. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΑξWΜΙΤWΝ ΒΙCΙ ΓΙCεΝε (Translation: Of the Aksumites of Gisene.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (315-325) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2033884860 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Semissis coin was issued by Ousanas, a significant Aksumite ruler whose reign from approximately 315 to 325 AD marks a pivotal era for the kingdom. Preceding the famous Christian monarch Ezana, Ousanas presided over a prosperous and expanding Aksum, maintaining robust trade networks across the Red Sea. His gold coinage, including this semissis, underscores Aksum's economic prowess and its adoption of a sophisticated monetary system, paralleling Roman standards and affirming its status as a major regional power.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this coin exemplifies the early Aksumite numismatic style, blending local iconographic traditions with influences from contemporary Roman coinage. The obverse typically features a finely rendered, diademed bust of Ousanas, facing right, often with a distinctive head covering. The reverse usually presents a simpler design, often a standing figure holding a spear and shield, or a stylized symbol, encircled by inscriptions in Ge'ez, frequently utilizing Greek letters. The aesthetic is characterized by strong royal portraiture.
Technical/Grading: Struck in high-purity gold at 2.56 grams, this semissis generally exhibits good, though variable, strike quality. Key high-points for wear and strike assessment include the ruler's diadem, hair, nose, and chin on the obverse, and the head, shoulders, and any drapery folds of the reverse figure. Early Aksumite gold coins can display irregularities in flan shape and centering, yet well-preserved examples reveal crisp details and strong relief, reflecting the advanced metallurgical capabilities of the Aksumite mint.