Ethiopia: Menelik II 1889 (1897) A Silver Birr

Ethiopia: Menelik II 1889 (1897) A Silver Birr, Paris Mint.

This coin was submitted for on-site grading in Munich; however, Brexit-related customs delays prevented the parcel from arriving before the grading deadline, and it is therefore offered here ungraded.

Struck at the Paris Mint during the reign of Emperor Menelik II, the silver Birr stands among the most celebrated and historically important issues of Ethiopian numismatics. Produced as part of Menelik's ambitious programme of monetary modernisation, it introduced a new national silver coinage that would become the foundation of Ethiopia's modern monetary system. The stately imperial portrait is paired with the majestic Lion of Judah, one of the most enduring symbols of Ethiopian sovereignty and identity.

This is an exceptionally attractive specimen displaying vibrant satin mint lustre beneath a delicate veil of golden champagne, pale rose, and dove-grey toning. The portrait is crisply engraved with excellent definition throughout, while the reverse lion is boldly struck, every detail of the flowing mane, banner, and regal stance preserved with remarkable sharpness. The originality of the surfaces lends the coin outstanding visual depth and undeniable eye appeal.

A handsome and highly desirable example of one of Africa's most iconic crown-sized issues, combining historical importance, artistic elegance, and increasingly elusive Mint State preservation.

ETHIOPIA. Menelik II, 1889-1913.
Silver Birr, 1889 (1897) A. Paris.
Obv.: ዳግማዊ፡ምኒልክ፡ ንጉሠ ፡ ነገሥት ፡ ዘኢትዮጵያ።; bust right with date [፲፰፻፺፭] below. Rev.: ሞዓ ፡ አንበሳ ፡ ዘእምነገደ ፡ ይሁዳ ፡፡, crowned lion facing left with foreleg holding ribboned cross, denomination [የብር ፡ ሩብ] below.

Reference: KM-5; Schön-6.
Weight: 27.90g.
Diameter: 40mm.
Mintage: 418,000.
Composition: 835/1000 Silver.

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