Obverse © simoneo80 – Reverse © worldcoincatalog
Obverse © simoneo80 – Reverse © worldcoincatalog
½ Siliqua - Ioel
| Silver (.900) | 0.85 g | 12 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Ioel (circa 590-615) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 590-615 |
| Value | ½ Siliqua (1⁄48) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 0.85 g |
| Diameter | 12 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#70730 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 91% |
Reverse
Cross with gilt center, within a circle.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΑΡΕϹΗΧΥ
Translation: "By the grace of Christ".
Comment
Aksum was on the maritime trade route between the Roman Empire, which became the Byzantine Empire in late 6th century, and India. This coin seems to be compatible with the Roman-Byzantine Half-Siliqua, created after the Roman coinage reform of Constantine I and remaining after the Anastasius reform replacing the Roman system by the Byzantine system.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Siliqua - Ioel (590-615) coin from Aksum is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pre-Christian imagery. The obverse side of the coin depicts a crowned bust of King Ioel, while the reverse side shows a cross surrounded by four birds, which is a symbol associated with the pre-Christian religion of the region. This blending of religious imagery reflects the cultural and religious shifts that were taking place in Aksum during this time period.