⅓ AR Unit - Aphilas
| Silver | 0.82 g | 13 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Aphilas (circa 305-315) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 305-315 |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.82 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#312735 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Wheat stalk upwards breaking retrograde lettering.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΗIΔICIB IMѠξA
Translation: [...] of the Aksumites, man of Dimele
Comment
This type appears to mix letterings and designs from several other types (MHAC# 6, 10, and 13).A unique piece seems to be known in an Italian private collection.
Interesting fact
The Aphilas coin, which was minted in Aksum between 305 and 315 AD, features an image of a crowned king on one side and a cross on the other. This coin was significant because it marked a shift in the Aksumite Empire's official religion from polytheistic paganism to Christianity. The cross on the coin symbolized the empire's newfound Christian faith, which would have a profound impact on the region's culture and politics for centuries to come.
