Catalog
1 Dinar - Selim II
| Issuer | Regency of Algiers (Algeria) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1566-1572 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | Central field displays a multi-line Arabic legend enclosed within two concentric squares, mirroring the geometric framework of the obverse. The marginal zone between the inner squares and the outer circular border carries an Arabic inscription identifying the mint as Madinat Tilmisan (Tlemcen). The overall composition is typical of Ottoman provincial hammered gold coinage, with slightly irregular flan edges consistent with hand-struck production. |
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| Mintage | 974 (1566) 980 (1572) |
| Additional information |
Selim II's reign opened with the Ottoman Empire at the height of its Mediterranean reach, and coinage from the Algerian Regency during these years reflects the province's semi-autonomous status — nominally subordinate to Istanbul yet practically self-governing under its beylerbeys. The Regency's treasury operated largely on corsair revenues and ransom payments, which gave its gold issues an irregular commercial character distinct from central Ottoman mint production.
The .625 fineness places this well below standard Ottoman sultani gold, a deliberate local adjustment reflecting the realities of North African bullion supply rather than debasement policy.