Fatimid Medallion

This bulls-eye type coin, minted under al-Mustansir, the eighth Fatimid Caliph, features striking calligraphy that encircles a central dot, drawing attention to the inscription from Sura 9, verse 33 of the Qur'an.

Translating the text from the inner to the outer circle, the coin proclaims: “There is no god but God, Muhammad is the messenger of God, and 'Ali is the most excellent of caretakers and the vizier of the best of messengers. Muhammad is the messenger of God who sent him with guidance and the religion of truth that he might make it supreme over all other religions, even though the polytheists detest it.” This beautifully inscribed coin exemplifies the intertwined power of Islam and the Caliphate.

First used by al-Mustansir Billah’s great-grandfather, al-Mu’izz, the Caliph of Cairo from A.D. 953-975, this coin reflects the prosperity of the Fatimid Caliphate during this period. Al-Mustansir’s sixty-year reign, one of the longest in Islamic history, began when he ascended the throne at only seven years old. His reign saw significant shifts in Islamic power balances, with the Abbasid Caliph in Baghdad and the Seljuq dynasty in Iran and Iraq rising in influence.

Despite these changes, al-Mustansir ensured that Fatimid Egypt remained well-administered and affluent, thanks to rich revenues and gold from Africa. Industry and agriculture thrived, and it was a time of intellectual, literary, and artistic brilliance. It was under al-Mustansir's rule that the first university in the Muslim world, al-Azhar in Cairo, was established, which remains active today.

Beyond its rarity, this dinar is a testament to the opulence and dynamic religious and cultural sophistication of the Fatimid Caliphate, even in the twilight of its period of dominance.

• Coin Ø 22mm

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Gold coins, unlike silver or bronze, do not develop a patina or tone over time due to the metal's natural resistance to corrosion and oxidation. Gold's inherent lustre and colour remain stable, ensuring that the coin's details are preserved just as they were when first struck. This enduring quality of gold adds to its timeless beauty and the historical significance of each piece. To ensure the longevity of your jewellery, please handle it with care and store it safely to prevent scratches or damage.

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