1 Dirham
Abbasid Silver Dirham
Abbasid Caliphate · Circa 132-218 AH (750-833 AD)
A thin, silver medieval Islamic coin featuring Kufic script with no pictorial representations.
- Country
- Abbasid Caliphate
- Year
- Circa 132-218 AH (750-833 AD)
- Denomination
- 1 Dirham
- Metal
- Silver (.900 - .950 fine silver typically)
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Overview
A thin, silver medieval Islamic coin featuring Kufic script with no pictorial representations.
Historical significance
Representing the Golden Age of Islam, these dirhams were standard currency from Spain to Central Asia. They replaced earlier Sasanian-style coinage with purely epigraphic (text-based) designs to reflect Islamic aniconism.
Obverse (front)
Central Kufic inscription of the Kalima (Shahada): 'There is no god but Allah alone, He has no partner.' Surrounded by a circular margin naming the mint and year of production.
Reverse (back)
Central Kufic inscription: 'Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.' The circular margin usually contains a verse from the Quran (Surah At-Tawbah 9:33).
Estimated value
$40-$100 in average circulated condition; $150-$300 for scarce mints or high-grade examples.
What drives this coin's value
Mint location, specific Hijri year, and clarity of the marginal legends are the primary value drivers.
Grade assessment
Very Fine (VF). The script is mostly legible with some typical uneven striking and minor circulation wear.
Mintage & rarity
Common for major mints like Baghdad; millions were struck, but many were melted or lost over centuries.
Authenticity & counterfeit red flags
Weight should be close to 2.9g; check for casting bubbles or 'soapy' letters which indicate a modern fake. The silver should have a characteristic ring when tapped lightly.
Notable varieties & errors
Varies by Caliph; coins mentioning specific heirs or governors (like Harun al-Rashid) are highly collected.
Similar coins
Umayyad Dirhams (earlier, usually larger/thinner) and Samanid Dirhams (later, often with more complex script).
Care & preservation
Handle by the edges; do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or archival capsules.
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