Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Coin Shop
253372.                                                     Sold For $135
   KINGS of AXUM (Aksum). Ouazebas. Circa 350-400 AD. Æ 18mm (2.31 gm).
   OVAZEBAC BACI LEYC, draped bust right wearing headcloth, flanked by grain
   ears / +TOV TO APECH TH XWPA (May This [the cross] Please the Country),
   small draped bust right in circle; the interior of the circle gilt.
   Munro-Hay 54; BMC Aksum 245. Near VF, green patina.
   One of the most curious aspects of Axumite coinage is the use of gilding on some of their silver and bronze coins. The amount of gold used could not significantly change the value of the coin, and the reason for this process remains a mystery. 

From the CNG Online Coin Store, before August, 2007.

Re-used by permission of CNG, www.cngcoins.com