© The Heberden Coin Room, Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
© The Heberden Coin Room, Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
Ꜹ Unit - Aphilas
| Gold (.920) | 2.55 g | 16.00 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Aphilas (circa 305-315) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 305-315 |
| Composition | Gold (.920) |
| Weight | 2.55 g |
| Diameter | 16.00 mm |
| Thickness | 3.00 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#312757 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Bust of Aphilas to right, wearing headcloth ornamented on front and ending with triangular ribbon behind, holding whisk in right hand, flanked by a grain stalk on each side; above, pellet on crescent dividing lettering.
Border of dots.
Script: Greek
Lettering: AξⲰMITⲰ BICI ΔIMHΛH
Unabridged legend: Άξωμιτών βισι Διμελε
Translation: [...] of the Aksumites, man of Dimele
Comment
Variations are known depending on the obverse lettering:- Type 4: lettering begins after a large blank space
© Roma Numismatics Limited
- Type 4i: lettering is broken by a blank space after ΑΦ
© Münzkabinett, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin
- Type 4ii: lettering begins after a short blank space (sometimes with a pellet on reverse behind neck below ribbon)
© The Heberden Coin Room, Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
Weight variation: 2.40-2.74 g.
Diameter variation: 15.00-17.00 mm.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aphilas coin from Aksum is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pre-Christian imagery. On one side, the coin bears the image of a cross, symbolizing the Christian faith that was prevalent in Aksum at the time. On the other side, the coin features a depiction of a lion, which was a common motif in pre-Christian Aksumite art and symbolized power and strength. This blending of religious imagery reflects the complex cultural and religious landscape of Aksum during the 4th century.
