A rare and historically layered silver proof coin from one of the most unusual minting programs of the 20th century — the Emirate of Ras Al Khaima, a tiny Persian Gulf sheikhdom that issued a remarkable series of world figure commemoratives in silver and gold in the years immediately before joining the United Arab Emirates in 1972. This example honors Dwight D. Eisenhower, who died in 1969, the year before this coin was struck.

Historical Background: Ras Al Khaima was a small independent emirate on the Persian Gulf coast, governed by Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. In the late 1960s and early 1970s — sensing that federation with neighboring sheikhdoms was approaching — Ras Al Khaima authorized an ambitious program of silver and gold commemorative coins featuring world leaders and historical figures, issued primarily for the international collector market. These coins were legal tender within the emirate but were produced in limited proof quantities for export sale, making them genuine government-issued coins of a sovereign state that ceased to exist independently in February 1972 when Ras Al Khaima became the seventh and final emirate to join the UAE. The 1970 Eisenhower issue was struck to commemorate the death of the 34th President and Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in World War II — 1890 to 1969 — one year after his passing. The coin is struck in .925 sterling silver and bears the "GOVERNMENT OF RAS AL KHAIMA" legend on the reverse with the denomination 10 RIYALS.

Obverse: Profile bust of Dwight Eisenhower facing left, DWIGHT EISENHOWER above, dates 1890–1969 below. Deep mirror proof fields with fully frosted portrait. Exceptional strike detail in the hair and facial features. The mirrored fields show the coin has been carefully preserved.

Reverse: 10 RIYALS denomination in English and Arabic, GOVERNMENT OF RAS AL KHAIMA surrounding, date 1970, with decorative border design. Mirror proof fields matching the obverse throughout.

Specifications:

• Type: Ras Al Khaima 10 Riyals — Eisenhower Memorial Commemorative
• Date: 1970
• Issuing Authority: Government of Ras Al Khaima (pre-UAE)
• Composition: .925 Sterling Silver
• Grade: Proof
• Significance: Issued by a sovereign state that ceased to exist in 1972

A genuine silver proof coin of a country that no longer exists — honoring one of the great figures of 20th-century American history.

Curiosity Coins — Medway, Massachusetts | Est. 1999 | ANA • PCGS • NGC • Heritage Auctions Member Buying & selling US and world coins, silver, gold, currency, and collectibles since 1999. Many auctions start at $5 — combined shipping always available. Questions welcome.