Anonymous, circa 359/60-450. Lepton (Bronze, 14 mm, 1.17 g, 12 h). BACI-ΛЄYC Draped male bust to right, wearing tight-fitting head cloth and circular earring, all within linear circle within thick circular border within linear circle. Rev. ΤΟΥΤΟ ΑΡCEH (sic!) TH XⲰΡΑ Cross in outline within circular border. Hahn, Aksumite, 33. Hahn & Keck, MAKS, 36. Munro-Hay, AC, type 52. A lovely piece with attractive earthen highlights. Minor edge chipping, otherwise, good very fine.


The greatest innovation in religious imagery and legends after Ezanas' conversion to Christianity in the middle of the 4th century no doubt occurred on the Axumite bronze coinage. This issue, first introduced under that king and continued under his successors, is remarkable for turning the cross into a central design element, which, as a symbol for Christ, the heavenly King of Kings, contrasts with the king's bust on the obverse, who is Christ's viceroy on Earth. The reverse legend 'TOYTO APЄCH TH XⲰΡΑ' (here slightly blundered) translates as 'May this please the country', a clear message reflecting the state's interest in the spread of the new religion to the Axumite population at large, which may have gone hand in hand with increasing monetization.