© AUREA Numismatika
© AUREA Numismatika
Tremissis - Kaleb
| Gold | 1.6 g | 17 mm |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Kaleb (circa 515-535) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 515-535 |
| Value | 1 Tremissis (⅓) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 1.6 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#95564 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 92% |
Reverse
Bust of Kaleb right, wearing headcloth ornamented on the front, draped, flanked by grain ears, within beaded circle.
Script: Greek
Lettering: +ΥΙΟϹ ΘΕΝΕΝΑ+
Translation: Son of Tazena
Comment
Aksum was on the maritime trade route between the Roman Empire, which became the Byzantine Empire in late 6th century, and India. This coin seems to be compatible with the Roman-Byzantine Tremissis, created in the last Roman Empire century and remaining after the Anastasius reform replacing the Roman system by the Byzantine system.Interesting fact
The Aksumite Empire, which issued the Tremissis - Kaleb coin, was known for its advanced agriculture, architecture, and trade networks. One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of a king on one side and a cross on the other, reflecting the empire's conversion to Christianity during the reign of King Ezana in the 4th century.
