© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Æ18 - Aphilas
| Bronze | 4.84 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Aphilas (circa 305-315) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 305-315 |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 4.84 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | 4 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#311425 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Small bust to right, wearing headcloth, draped, within circle closed by dot at top and at bottom; above, pellet on crescent dividing the lettering.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΑξѠΜΙΤѠΝ ΒΙCΙ ΔΙΜΗΛΗ
Translation: [...] of Aksum, man of Dimele
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aphilas coin is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pre-Christian imagery. On one side, it depicts a cross, symbolizing the Christian faith that was prevalent during Aphilas' reign, while on the other side, it features a depiction of a lion, which was a common motif in pre-Christian Aksumite art. This blending of religious symbols reflects the complex cultural and religious landscape of the Aksumite Empire during this time period.
