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½ Dinar - Abu Zakariya' Yahya I
| Issuer | Hafsid dynasty (North Africa and Sicily) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1230-1249 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | 2.28 g |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | The reverse repeats the compositional scheme of the obverse, presenting a three-line Arabic inscription contained within three nested concentric squares. An additional circumferential Arabic legend occupies the annular space surrounding the outermost square frame. The layout closely mirrors the obverse, consistent with Hafsid hammered gold coinage practice wherein both sides bear parallel calligraphic declarations of faith or ruler's titulature. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
Abu Zakariya' Yahya I founded the Hafsid dynasty by breaking from his former Almohad overlords around 1229, initially governing Ifriqiya as a nominal vassal before declaring full independence. The half-dinar denomination served long-distance Mediterranean trade circuits, particularly with Italian merchant republics whose own gold coinages were still finding their footing — Florence would not strike its first florin until 1252.
Hafsid gold of this reign is notable for maintaining the Almohad weight standard even after the political rupture, a pragmatic concession to existing trade expectations.