© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
1 Birr - Menelik II Pattern
1889 (1897) year| Gold (.900) | 41.52 g | 45 mm |
| Issuer | Ethiopian Empire (Ethiopia) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Menelik II (1889-1913) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1889 (1897) |
| Calendar | Ethiopian |
| Value | 1 Birr / Thaler (አንድ፡ብር) |
| Currency | Birr / Thaler (1893-1931) |
| Composition | Gold (.900) |
| Weight | 41.52 g |
| Diameter | 45 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#315090 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Lion of Judah: Crowned lion carrying a cross
Script: Ge'ez
Engraver: Jean Lagrange
Edge
Plain
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Birr - Menelik II (Pattern) 1889 (1897) from Ethiopian Empire (Ethiopia) made of Gold (.900) weighing 41.52 g is that it was designed by the French engraver and medalist, Oscar Roty. Roty was known for his work on various coins and medals, including the famous French 20 Franc gold coin featuring the allegory of the Republic. The Pattern 1 Birr coin features a portrait of Menelik II, the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889 to 1913, and was minted in 1897 as a pattern coin, meaning it was not intended for circulation but rather as a sample or prototype. This coin is considered a rare and valuable collector's item among numismatists.
