Arab Byzantine Fals Standing Caliph Dimashq Authentic Early Islamic Coin

Authentic Early Islamic Coin – Certificate of Authenticity Included

Details:
Authority: Arab-Byzantine / Umayyad Administration
Denomination: Fals (Æ Bronze)
Mint: Dimashq
Date: Circa AD 690–700
Reference: DOCAB 104–6 var.; Goodwin 58 var.; cf. SICA I 704
Diameter: 18 mm
Weight: 3.63 g
Die Axis: 9 h

Overview:
Arab-Byzantine bronze fals of the Standing Caliph type struck at Dimashq in the late 7th century. The obverse depicts the caliph standing facing in long robes, holding the pommel of a sword, with a girdle band hanging from the elbow. The reverse features a transformed cross set upon four steps, with the mint name Dimashq clearly positioned to the left.

This issue belongs to the important transitional phase of early Islamic coinage, retaining modified Byzantine imagery while introducing Arabic mint inscriptions. The Standing Caliph series is one of the most historically significant types of the pre-reform Umayyad period.

Authenticity Check:
Natural patina consistent with 7th-century bronze. Proper Arab-Byzantine fabric and strike characteristics. No signs of casting or modern tooling.

Comparable Examples:
DOCAB 104–6 (variant position of mint name); Goodwin 58; cf. SICA I 704.

Further Reading:
SICA – Studies in Islamic Coinage and Archaeology
DOC Arab-Byzantine volumes
Stephen Album, Checklist of Islamic Coins

Condition:
Very Fine. Clear standing caliph figure and well-defined reverse device with legible mint name. Even wear and solid flan.