Ethiopian Haile Selassie I 10 Dollars Gold Coin - Emperor Coronations Theme
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (High copper-tinted historical alloy)
Purity: 900 Fine Gold (90% purity, 21.6 Karat)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
900 Fine Gold (90% purity, 21.6 Karat)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-tinted historical alloy)
Weight
3.37 grams (0.0975 oz AGW)
Description
This gold coin features the profile of Emperor Haile Selassie I, the last reigning monarch of Ethiopia and a central figure in Rastafarianism. The obverse depicts the Emperor in left-facing profile with Amharic lettering flanking the portrait. Usually issued as part of a commemorative series, these coins are sought after for both their gold content and their connection to the Solomonic dynasty.
Key Features
Portrait of Haile Selassie I, Amharic script, specific gold fineness typical of Ethiopian legal tender.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow; proof-like or circulated matte finish with heavy dark patina and surface oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Arabic/Amharic script legends; no Western purity stamps (standard for government-minted coinage).
Dimensions Estimate
18.5 mm diameter; standard 10 Dollar denomination size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief strike numismatic design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge (standard coin rim).
Chain & Links
N/A - Coin strike.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die manufacture; features high-relief portraiture and distinct Ethiopian script iconography.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of Amharic characters, profile accuracy of the Emperor, and reeded edge consistency. Darkening suggests an alloy typical of 90% gold.
Origin & Maker
Ethiopia; likely struck at the Ethiopian Mint or a European contract mint (e.g., London or Paris).
Era & Period
Modern Numismatic - Haile Selassie Era (Mid-20th Century).
Age Estimate
Circa 1966 (EE 1958) or related commemorative issue dates.
Cultural Significance
High cultural importance to Ethiopia and the global African diaspora; symbol of sovereignty and independence.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows significant surface darkening/toning, possibly environmental exposure or heavy circulation wear. Surface luster is muted.
Value Estimate
$250 - $350 (highly dependent on current gold spot price plus a numismatic premium for Ethiopian royalty themes).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is destroyed by chemical residue or abrasive rubbing. Store in a PVC-free coin flip.
Similar Items
South African Krugerrand (22K), British Sovereign (22K), or smaller Ethiopian gold denominations like the 20 or 50 Dollars.
Interesting Facts
Haile Selassie was known as the 'Conquering Lion of Judah' and claimed direct descent from King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.