Ethiopian Birr Coin Appraisal

Ethiopian Birr Coin

The item is a silver-colored metallic coin, approximately the size of a standard circulating coin, held in the palm of a hand. The coin features what appears to be the Coat of Arms of Ethiopia on its obverse side, prominently displaying a crowned lion walking left, holding a cross flag staff. Around the central image, there is an inscription in Ge'ez script, which is partially visible but difficult to fully decipher due to the image resolution and angle. Below the lion, the word "ETHIOPIA" is discernible in Latin script, further confirming its origin. The coin exhibits some visible wear consistent with circulation, including minor scratches and dulling of the metallic luster, suggesting a used or circulated condition rather than pristine. The edges appear reeded based on subtle light reflections, a common feature for security and ease of handling. The precise denomination or year is not clearly visible from the provided images, but the design is indicative of Ethiopian currency from the mid to late 20th century. The quality of the strike appears fine for a circulating coin, with legible details where visible. No prominent damage, such as bends or significant gouges, is apparent, only general surface wear. The exact material composition cannot be determined with certainty from visual inspection alone but is likely a base metal alloy common for coinage of its estimated era.