Ouzebas, late 4th-early 5th century. Multiple Lepton (Gilt Bronze, 16 mm, 1.92 g, 12 h). ✠OYΛZHBAC BACIΛEΥC Draped bust of Ouzebas to right, wearing tight-fitting head cloth and circular earring; to left and right, ears of barley. Rev. ΤΟΥΤΟ ΑΡCCH TH XⲰΡΑ Draped bust of Ouzebas (or Ezanas?) to right, wearing tight-fitting head cloth and circular earring, within shallow round incuse inlaid in gold within circular border. Hahn, Aksumite, 26a. Hahn & Keck, MAKS, 37(a). Munro-Hay, AC, 54. Light deposits, otherwise, very fine.


This is the first Axumite bronze issue to be partially gilded. Hahn & Keck (MAKS, p. 89) have suggested that the bust on the reverse may represent the deified/canonized Ezanas, as this is the only royal bust set on a gilt background after the introduction of Christianity. By underlining Ezanas' sacred status, Ouzebas, perhaps a brother of the latter, could enhance his own legitimacy and prestige. Curiously, the cross was omitted in the reverse legend, no doubt by accident.