© The Heberden Coin Room, Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
© The Heberden Coin Room, Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
Ꜹ Unit - Aphilas
| Gold (.920) | 2.67 g | 16.00 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Aphilas (circa 305-315) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 305-315 |
| Composition | Gold (.920) |
| Weight | 2.67 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#312758 |
|---|---|
| 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
Lettering cut between BACIΛЄ and YC.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 crowned king, likely King Aphilas himself, while on the other side, it features a depiction of a lion, which was a symbol of the pre-Christian kingdom of Aksum. This blending of symbols reflects the complex cultural and religious landscape of the Aksumite kingdom during this time period.
