Rare Mongol Siege Coin – Al-Malik Issue from Kurzuwan, 618 AH / 1221 CE (Jumada-I) – Khwarazmian / Mongol Invasion Era

Item Description:

This is an exceptionally rare and historically significant Al-Malik coin, minted during one of the most turbulent moments in Central Asian history — the Mongol siege of the city of Kurzuwan in 618 AH / 1221 CE.

Historical Context:
Kurzuwan, located in present-day northern Afghanistan (modern Badghis/Faryab provinces), was once a key city near the Silk Road. In 1221 CE, it became a target during the Mongol campaign led by Tolui, son of Chinghiz Khan, under direct orders from the Khan himself. This brutal campaign was a direct response to the Khwarizmshah Ala al-Din Muhammad II, who had infamously executed Mongol emissaries and rejected all diplomatic overtures.

As the Mongols laid siege to Kurzuwan, the central administration collapsed, leaving the city isolated. In this vacuum, local authorities issued the Al-Malik coins, making them the only known Mongol siege coinage from the eastern Islamic world — specifically the province of Khurasan.

Coin Details:

• Type: Al-Malik siege coin

• Date: Jumada Al-Awwal 618 AH (May / June 1221 CE)

• Mint: Kurzuwan (Medieval Khurasan region)

• Historical Significance: Issued during the brief autonomous period after abandonment by Khwarazmian authorities, but before total Mongol control, issued while the city was under siege by the Mongol army

• Rarity: Coins dated Jumada-I are considered rarer than the earlier Rabi’ al-Akhir (Rabi’-II) issues, as the city fell within the early days of Jumada-I

• Obverse: Al-Malik in central circle, with month (Jamada-I fifth month of Islamic Lunar calendar) and year 618 AH (1221 CE) around, outer border of connected dots.

• Reverse: Kurzuwan (mint name at the top) followed by the Shahadah (Islamic profession of faith) within a border of connected dots

• Weight: 3.05 gm

• Diameter: 19.5 - 20.2 mm

• References: Album-1971, Tye-324.2

• Grade: Choice VF-EF

Collector's Note:
This coin is of great interest to collectors of Islamic, Mongol, and siege coinage, and represents a crucial moment in the Mongol expansion into the Islamic world. Its connection to a major historical event makes it a standout piece for any serious numismatic collection.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a rare and remarkable artifact from the era of Chinghiz Khan’s conquests.

Note: Please consult the provided photographs to ascertain the condition of the coin and bid with complete confidence that you will receive the same coin.