Nezana/Nezool, circa 480s-500. Chrysos (Gold, 17 mm, 1.64 g, 12 h). [Θ]ЄΟΥ Є-ΥΧΑΡΙCΤΙΛ Draped half-length bust of Nezana/Nezool to right, wearing tiara and circular earring, holding spear in his right hand and with bracelets on his right arm; to left and right, ears of barley; above, cross. Rev. ΗЄΖΛΗΛ ΒΛCIΛЄΥC Draped half-length bust of Nezana/Nezool to right, wearing tight-fitting head cloth and circular earring, holding branch in his right hand and with bracelets on his right arm; to left and right, ears of barley; above, cross. Hahn, Aksumite, 38b. Hahn & Keck, MAKS, 52.10 (this coin). Munro-Hay, AC, type 79. Extremely rare, just twelve examples recorded by Hahn & Keck, of which ten in private hands. A fascinating type with an overt Christian legend on the obverse. Struck from slightly worn dies, otherwise, good very fine.


For the interpretation of the legend on the obverse, see the previous lot.