The Fals – Anonymous Anbulus coin is a significant example of currency from the Umayyad Caliphate era, used between 696 and 750 AD. This coin, a standard circulation coin, was part of the economic system in the early Islamic period and reflects the copper currency that circulated across the Islamic world during the Umayyad rule. The Fals had a value of 1/60th of a Dinar and was commonly used for smaller transactions. The coin’s hammered technique and Arabic inscriptions on both sides make it a remarkable example of early Islamic numismatic history.
Issuer and Historical Context
The Fals was issued during the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750 AD), one of the most significant Islamic dynasties. Under Umayyad rule, the empire expanded rapidly, and currency became essential for daily transactions and the functioning of the vast territory. The Umayyads introduced coins in a variety of denominations, including the Fals, to accommodate the increasing need for small currency. This coin represents the economic development and Islamic cultural influence that spread across the regions governed by the Umayyad Caliphs.
Coin Specifications
- Issuer: Umayyad Caliphate
- Coin Type: Standard circulation coin
- Years of Issue: 696-750 AD
- Value: 1 Fals (1/60th of a Dinar)
- Currency Used: Dinar (661-750 AD)
- Material: Copper
- Weight: 4.23 grams
- Shape: Round (irregular)
- Minting Technique: Hammered
- Demonetized: Yes (no longer in circulation)
- Numista Reference: N#72618
Obverse Design and Inscriptions
The obverse of the coin features Arabic script, a defining characteristic of Islamic coinage.
- The Arabic inscription commonly found on the obverse of these coins is often related to Islamic beliefs and authority. The script was designed to assert the Islamic presence and authority under the Umayyad rulers.
- The use of Arabic calligraphy emphasized the spread of Islamic culture and religion through the use of the Arabic language, an essential aspect of the empire’s identity.
Reverse Design and Inscriptions
The reverse of the Fals – Anonymous Anbulus coin also contains Arabic script, completing the coin’s design with a focus on religious and political significance.
- The reverse inscription on this type of coin typically includes mentions of the Caliphate or religious expressions, further asserting the legitimacy of the Umayyad rule.
- The reverse design may also feature geometric patterns or other symbolic elements in line with the Islamic art style that avoided the use of human or animal representations.
Material, Technique, and Demonetization
The Fals was struck from copper, a common and accessible metal in the Islamic world at the time.
- The hammered technique was used for minting these coins, where each coin was individually struck using a die, creating the distinctive, irregular shape of the coin.
- This coin was eventually demonetized as the Umayyad Caliphate gave way to the Abbasid Caliphate, and the Fals was no longer in circulation. However, coins like this are important remnants of the early Islamic economy.
Rarity and Collectability
The Fals – Anonymous Anbulus coin is a rarity among collectors due to its historical significance and the limited number of surviving examples.
- The Numista Rarity Index indicates the rarity of this coin, making it highly sought after by numismatists and collectors of Islamic coins.
- As part of the Umayyad collection, this coin provides valuable insight into the economy and cultural practices of the time.
