Second Known

Triton XIV, Lot: 1190. Estimate $15000. Sold for $16000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

AXUM. Wazeba (WZB). Circa 320. AV (18mm, 1.81 g, 12h). “WZB King of Axum man of ZGLY” in Ge‘ez, crowned and draped bust right, holding stick or scepter; grain ears flanking; above, Ge‘ez monogram “WZB” surmounted by upturned crescent / “WZB King of Axum man of ZGLY” in Ge‘ez, draped bust right, wearing headcloth, holding branch; grain ears flanking; above, Ge‘ez monogram “WZB” surmounted by three pellets in upturned crescent. Hahn, Aksumite 15 = Munro-Hay type 15 = BMC Axum p. 28. VF, traces of red toning, a few minor marks, struck on a slightly wavy flan. Only the second known and only one in private hands. Of extreme rarity and historical importance.

Known from only one other example, located in the Bibliothèque Nationale, this coin is exceptional for the presence of Ge‘ez monogram above the obverse and reverse portraits and the use of Ge‘ez in both obverse and reverse legends.