The Fals coin of al-Zahir Ghazi, issued during the Ayyubid dynasty, is a significant piece of Islamic numismatic history. This coin, minted in Halab (modern-day Aleppo), holds great value for collectors and historians, as it represents the era of al-Zahir Ghazi, one of the most notable figures of the Ayyubid dynasty. The coin is a copper Fals, with a weight of 4.38 grams and a diameter of 23mm.
Issuer and Historical Context
The coin was minted under the rule of al-Zahir Ghazi, the third son of Sultan Saladin, who played a pivotal role in the Ayyubid dynasty. Al-Zahir Ghazi governed Aleppo (Halab) from 1186 to 1216 AD, a period of significant military and political activity in the Middle East. The Ayyubid dynasty, founded by Saladin, was known for its military successes against the Crusaders and its contributions to the Islamic Golden Age.
Coin Specifications
- Issuer: Ayyubids, al-Zahir Ghazi
- Coin Type: Fals
- Mint Name: Halab (Aleppo)
- Material: Copper
- Weight: 4.38 grams
- Diameter: 23mm
- Year: Not Applicable (ND)
- Denomination: Fals
- Album Reference: 838.4
- Condition: VF (Very Fine 30-35)
This Fals was part of the currency system during the Ayyubid period, where small copper coins were used for everyday transactions. The Fals coin, with its copper composition, was an essential part of the economy of the region.
Design and Inscriptions
The obverse and reverse of al-Zahir Ghazi’s Fals feature Arabic inscriptions typical of Islamic coins from the Ayyubid period. The obverse typically carries the name of the ruling caliph or emir, asserting the legitimacy of the ruler. In this case, al-Zahir Ghazi‘s name is featured prominently, along with the mint name Halab. The reverse often bears religious or political inscriptions, such as affirmations of the Islamic faith or expressions of sovereignty, reflecting the Islamic identity and authority of the time.
Historical Significance
Al-Zahir Ghazi was not only a skilled military leader but also an important ruler in the Ayyubid dynasty, which was central to the political and cultural developments of the time. His rule in Aleppo (Halab) was part of the larger struggle for control over the Levant during the period of the Crusades. His coinage reflects the region’s economic and political influence.
Mint and Geographic Importance
The Halab mint (modern-day Aleppo, Syria) was one of the key urban centers of the Ayyubid dynasty. As a hub of political and commercial activity, it played an important role in minting currency during the rule of al-Zahir Ghazi. Coins like this Fals circulated widely in the region and served as a medium for trade, taxes, and commerce.
Rarity and Collectability
This coin, while not unique, is highly sought after by collectors of Ayyubid coins due to its historical significance and the role it played in everyday transactions of the time. The Fals of al-Zahir Ghazi is a rare piece for collectors of Islamic coins, especially those interested in the Ayyubid period. Its VF (Very Fine) condition makes it a desirable item for numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.
Availability and Purchase
The coin is no longer available for sale, but experts are available to help locate similar items for collectors. Its historical context, combined with its design and condition, makes it an important item in the numismatic world.
