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1 Birr - Menelik II Pattern
| Issuer | Ethiopian Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 1897 |
| Type | Coin pattern |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Right-facing crowned bust of Emperor Menelik II, wearing an ornate imperial crown and traditional robes, rendered in high relief in the manner of European portrait coinage. The effigy displays a full beard and strong profile characteristic of official imperial portraiture. A circular Ge'ez legend surrounds the bust, reading the full imperial titulature of the Emperor. The word 'ETHIOPIA' appears in Ge'ez script at the base, below the truncation. The overall composition reflects the work of French engraver Jean Lagrange, blending Ethiopian iconography with Western medallic tradition. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Ge'ez |
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| Reverse description | The Lion of Judah passant, facing left and wearing an imperial crown, occupies the central field. The lion carries a processional cross on a staff in its right forepaw, a traditional symbol of Ethiopian imperial authority. The figure is rendered in strong relief against a plain field, with detailed mane and muscular anatomy consistent with Lagrange's medallic style. A circular Ge'ez legend surrounds the lion along the periphery. The denomination 'አንድ፡ብር' (One Birr) appears in the exergue below the lion. |
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