Ottoman Empire Gold Kurush (Jewelry/Commercial Bullion Style)
Country of Origin: Ottoman Empire (Modern Turkey area and beyond)
Year of Issue: Late 19th to early 20th Century design style (original series AH 1293 // 1876-1909)
Denomination: Likely 100 Kurush (also known as 1 Lira / Monnaie de Luxe)
Composition: Typically 22k Gold (0.917 fine) for official currency; often lower (14k-21k) or gilt if modern jewelry copies.
Brief Description
A thin gold-colored coin-like object featuring a Tuqhra (calligraphic monogram) surrounded by stars and a laurel wreath.
Historical Significance
These coins were primarily minted under Sultan Abdul Hamid II. However, because of their popularity in traditional jewelry (dowries and ceremonial gifts), vast numbers of imitation pieces have been produced for over a century.
Estimated Value
$50 - $450 USD. If authentic gold, value is primarily based on melt weight (e.g., ~$450 for a full Lira). If a gilt/plated replica, value is negligible ($1-$5).
Care Instructions
Never clean gold coins with abrasives or chemicals. Handle only by the edges. Store in a PVC-free plastic holder or a soft fabric pouch to prevent scratches.
Mint Mark
The mint for official pieces was Qustantiniya (Constantinople/Istanbul), indicated by small Arabic script on the reverse.
Mintage & Rarity
Common. Millions of official pieces were struck, and even more unofficial jewelry reproductions exist.
Weight & Diameter
Standard 100 Kurush: ~7.21 grams, ~22mm. Jewelry versions vary significantly in thickness and weight.
Edge
Usually reeded (official) or plain (some jewelry types).
Apparent Grade
Appears to be in Extremely Fine (XF) condition relative to its design, showing sharp details but slight surface wear and a very bright, suggestive 'jewelry gold' luster.
Obverse (Front)
The Tuqhra (calligraphic seal) of the Sultan, surrounded by a laurel wreath on the left side and seven stars along the upper right border.
Reverse (Back)
Typically features Arabic script stating the mint and the date of the Sultan's accession, also surrounded by a wreath and stars.
What Drives This Coin's Value
The primary factor is gold content. Authenticity as an official government strike significantly increases numismatic value over bullion value.
Similar Coins
Often confused with other denominations of the 'Monnaie de Luxe' series (25, 50, 250, 500 Kurush) which share almost identical designs but differ in size.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check the weight with a precision scale. Official coins have very specific weights (e.g., 7.21g for 100 Kurush). Jewelry copies often have fuzzy details or 'mushy' stars.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varies by 'Regnal Year' (RY), represented by a small number above the word 'az-nasr' on the reverse, indicating how many years into the Sultan's reign it was struck.
Created At: 2026-04-20T07:46:05.625470