Drachmas Doubloons and Dollars: The History of Money
(Exhibition Home)
African Money
Introduction
Aksumite Coinage - Salt - Cowrie Shells - Iron and Copper - Ring Money
Aksumite Coinage

The ancient Kingdom of Aksum flourished in the region of modern Ethiopia from the 3rd until the mid-7th century AD, when the rise of Islam weakened its power. Aksumite kings controlled trade in and out of the Red Sea and were the allies of Roman emperors and Sasanian shahs.
Aksumite gold (late 3rd century AD) of King Endybis. This king was the first Aksumite king to issue coins.
Aksumite bronze coin (early 7th century AD) of king Wazenas showing four crosses around a gold plug. Aksum first became Christian in the 4th century AD.