Issuer and Historical Context

This Fals coin was issued under the rule of Kayka’us I, the Sultan of the Rûm Sultanate, who reigned from 1211 to 1220 AD. The Rûm Sultanate was a state established by the Seljuq Turks in Anatolia after the Battle of Manzikert (1071 AD). It was part of the larger Seljuq Empire that played a significant role in the history of the Middle East and Anatolia. Kayka’us I was a notable ruler during the 13th century who worked to maintain the stability of the Sultanate, especially during a time of fragmentation and external threats. His reign is marked by efforts to consolidate power and maintain control over the lands of Anatolia.

Coin Specifications

• Issuer: Rûm Sultanate, Sultan Kayka’us I
• Denomination: 1 Fals (1⁄60 of a Dinar)
• Weight: 4.2 grams
• Diameter: 27 mm
• Material: Copper
• Years of Issue: 1211-1220 AD
• Orientation: Variable alignment (↺)
• Mint Technique: Hammered
• Shape: Round (irregular)
• Currency: Dinar (1016-1308)
• Demonetized: Yes

This Fals coin, made of copper, weighs 4.2 grams and has a diameter of 27 mm. It was minted using a hammered technique, which was common for coins of this era. The coin is round, though slightly irregular in shape, typical of hand-struck coins of the time. The coin’s orientation is variable, indicating that the alignment of the coin was not fixed during minting.

Obverse and Reverse Designs

The obverse of the coin typically features inscriptions in Arabic, highlighting the name of the Sultan, Kayka’us I, as well as titles and religious expressions, reinforcing the Sultan’s legitimacy. The reverse often carries further Islamic inscriptions, such as affirmations of the Islamic faith, or references to the Sultan’s authority. The Rûm Sultanate coins from this period often blended Turkish and Persian cultural influences, which is reflected in their design.

Historical Significance

The reign of Kayka’us I occurred during a turbulent period for the Rûm Sultanate, as the empire was dealing with internal instability and external threats from both the Crusaders and Mongols. The Fals coin of Kayka’us I serves as a reminder of the Sultanate’s resilience during this time. The coin’s circulation and standardization also reflect the economic efforts to maintain stability in Anatolia and trade with other regions.

Rarity and Collectability

This coin, while not the rarest of the period, is highly sought after by collectors of Seljuq and Islamic coins due to its historical importance and connection to the Rûm Sultanate. The Fals of Kayka’us I is often found in collections of coins from the early 13th century, and its condition is key to its value. It is a valuable piece for collectors of coins from the Seljuq era and those interested in the monetary systems of medieval Islamic empires.

Geographic Importance

The Rûm Sultanate had its base in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), which was an important region during the medieval period. The minting of coins in this region facilitated trade both locally and across borders, contributing to the economic stability of the Sultanate. The coins were widely circulated, and their design reflects the region’s Islamic cultural influences as well as the interactions with neighboring empires and cultures.