Issued by the Republic of Iraq to commemorate the first anniversary of the 1958 revolution, this large silver 500 Fils coin honors General Abdul Karim Qassem, the leader of the coup that ended the Hashemite monarchy and established the republic. Struck in .500 fine silver and weighing approximately 37.5 grams, the coin features a commanding portrait of Qassem in military uniform and a reverse emblem symbolizing Iraq’s agricultural and industrial aspirations.

Certified MS63 by PCGS, this example displays sharp detail and attractive surfaces, making it a desirable high-grade survivor of a historically pivotal issue.

Coin Details:

• Denomination: 500 Fils

• Year: 1959 (AH1379)

• Metal: Silver (.500 fine)

• Weight: ~37.5 g

• ASW: ~0.60 oz

• Diameter: 40 mm

• Finish: Mint State (PCGS MS63)

• Obverse: Bust of General Abdul Karim Qassem in uniform; Arabic legend “14 July 1958”

• Reverse: Stylized emblem with wheat, gear, flags, and radiating lines; legend “Republic of Iraq” and dual date 1958 / 1379 AH

• Edge: Plain

• Mint: Baghdad

• Catalog Reference: KM# 125

• Certification: PCGS MS63

Highlights:

• Commemorates the 1st anniversary of the Iraqi Republic, a turning point in Middle Eastern history

• Features General Abdul Karim Qassem, a central figure in Iraq’s post-monarchy era

• Struck in large-format silver (.500 fine, 37.5 g) — impressive in hand and scarce in high grade

• Certified by PCGS, ensuring authenticity and preservation