© Roma Numismatics Limited
© Roma Numismatics Limited
Silver Unit - Aphilas
| Silver (.900) | 2.34 g | 17.00 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Aphilas (circa 305-315) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 305-315 |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 2.34 g |
| Diameter | 17.00 mm |
| Thickness | 2.50 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#312375 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Bust of Aphilas to right, wearing headcloth ornamented on front and ending with triangular ribbon behind; above, pellet on crescent dividing lettering.
Border of dots.
Script: Greek
Lettering: AξⲰMITⲰΝ BICI ΔIMHΛH
Unabridged legend: Άξωμιτών βισι Διμελε
Translation: [...] of the Aksumites, man of Dimele
Comment
The lettering breaks of this type are quite specific:- On the obverse, the lettering begins at 8 o'clock and ends with a break between the letters Є and Y between 4 and 6 o'clock
- On the reverse, the legend begins at 6 o'clock with a break immediately after the first letter
Weight variation: 2.29-2.36 g.
Diameter variation: 16.00-17.00 mm.
Interesting fact
The Aphilas coin was used as a form of currency in the Kingdom of Aksum, which was a powerful and influential empire in the Horn of Africa during the 1st to 8th centuries AD. The coin features an image of the king, Aphilas, on one side and an image of a lion on the other, symbolizing the kingdom's strength and power. Despite being made of silver, the coin was not used for large transactions and was mainly used for small purchases and trade.
