Umayyad Fals Dimashq Three Circle Type 710s AD Rare Authentic Islamic Coin

Authentic Ancient Islamic Coin – Certificate of Authenticity Included

Details:
Dynasty: Umayyad Caliphate
Denomination: Fals (Æ Bronze)
Mint: Dimashq (Damascus)
Date: Undated, circa 710s AD
Reference: Album 174; cf. Bone 7
Diameter: —
Weight: 5.25 g

Overview:
Rare Umayyad bronze fals struck at Dimashq in the early 8th century. This example belongs to the distinctive three outer circles with inner circle type. The marginal legend reads bism Allah duriba al-fals bi-dimashq, notably without the word hadha before al-fals, an important diagnostic feature of this variety.

Damascus, capital of the Umayyad Caliphate, produced a complex and evolving bronze series following the monetary reforms initiated under `Abd al-Malik. Variants in marginal legends and circular border structures mark transitional phases in the development of standardized Islamic epigraphic coinage.

At 5.25 grams, this is a substantial specimen with a broad and well-struck flan. Examples of this specific legend configuration are scarce and seldom encountered in such high grade.

Authenticity Check:
Lovely sharp strike with strong relief and full marginal legend. Natural dark patina consistent with early Islamic bronze fabric. No signs of modern tooling or alteration.

Comparable Examples:
Listed as Album 174; compare Bone 7 for related varieties. Rarely offered in Extremely Fine condition.

Further Reading:
Stephen Album, Checklist of Islamic Coins
John Walker, A Catalogue of the Muhammadan Coins in the British Museum
Studies in Islamic Coinage and Archaeology (SICA series)

Condition:
Extremely Fine. Bold strike, well-centered legends, strong circular borders, and excellent overall eye appeal. Rare variety.