© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Triens - Wazeba and Ousanas
320 year| Silver | 0.78 g | - |
| Issuer | Aksum |
|---|---|
| King | Wazeba (circa 320) Ousanas (circa 315-325) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 320 |
| Value | 1 Tremissis (⅓) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.78 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#311554 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Small bust of Ouasanas to right, wearing headcloth, draped; , within circle often gilded; disc on crescent above, dividing the lettering.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΟΥCΑΝΑC ΒΑCΙΛεΥC
Translation: King Ousanas
Interesting fact
The Aksumite coinage, which includes the Triens - Wazeba and Ousanas (320) coin, is considered to be one of the earliest forms of currency in Africa, dating back to the 1st century AD. These coins were used for trade and commerce within the Aksumite Kingdom, which was a major power in the region for several centuries. The use of coins as a medium of exchange helped to facilitate trade and commerce, and played a significant role in the development of the Aksumite economy.
