Ottoman Empire 20 Para, Mehmed V Issue
Country of Origin: Ottoman Empire (Modern-day Turkey)
Year of Issue: AH 1327 / Year 2 (approx. 1910 AD)
Denomination: 20 Para
Composition: Nickel
Brief Description
A small circular nickel coin featuring a central Tugra (calligraphic seal) on the obverse and a large numeral 20 on the reverse, surrounded by wreaths and inscriptions in Arabic script.
Historical Significance
Issued during the reign of Sultan Mehmed V (1909–1918) following the Young Turk Revolution. This period marked the transition of the Ottoman Empire toward a constitutional monarchy amidst the decline of the imperial era.
Estimated Value
$1-$3 in well-worn condition, $10-$25 in uncirculated condition
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish the coin as it can destroy the numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation or 'green' corrosion (verdigris) visible on the edges.
Mint Mark
Kostantiniyye (Istanbul)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; millions were minted for general circulation under the AH 1327 series.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 4.0g, 21.0mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF) - Show signs of circulation wear and some surface oxidation (green verdigris spots), but legends and central designs remain clear.
Obverse (Front)
Features the Tugra (monogram/signature) of Sultan Mehmed V within a dotted circle. To the right is the word 'Reshad', and it is surrounded by a wreath composed of laurel and wheat stalks.
Reverse (Back)
Features the denomination '20' in Arabic-Indic numerals. Above is the mint location 'Kostantiniyye' and below is the accession year AH 1327 with the regnal year '2' above the 'Ba' in Para.
What Drives This Coin's Value
The value is primarily determined by the regnal year (written above the date) and the state of preservation. Common years in circulated grades have low value.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the 5, 10, or 40 Para of the same series. They can be distinguished by size and the central numeral on the reverse (5, 10, or 40).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits of this specific low-denomination base-metal coin are rare, but verify weight and lack of casting bubbles. Check for consistent strike quality in the Arabic calligraphy.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Regnal years range from 1 to 9; year 1 is slightly more sought after than year 2.
Created At: 2026-06-04T19:24:30.299715