1 Fals - Anonymous

Historical Context: This copper fals, issued anonymously from Dvin between 1155 and 1163, reflects a period of significant political flux in the Armenian region. Dvin, a crucial trade city, was often contested between various Seljuk atabegs and local potentates following the decline of the Great Seljuk Empire. The anonymous nature of the coinage likely signifies either a deliberate civic issuance, a pragmatic response to rapidly changing allegiances, or an assertion of local authority amidst broader suzerainty, avoiding the naming of a potentially transient ruler. Such fals were essential for daily commerce.

Artistry: Lacking specific engraver attribution, this fals belongs to the broader Islamic numismatic tradition prevalent in the Seljuk sphere. While the precise design is not detailed, copper fals of this era often featured simplified epigraphic designs, typically Kufic or Naskh script, sometimes accompanied by basic geometric patterns or civic symbols. The anonymity of the coin could suggest a focus on functional inscription or a universally recognizable, un-attributed motif rather than an elaborate artistic statement tied to a specific ruler.

Technical/Grading: With a modest weight of 2.12 grams and a diameter of 14 millimeters, this copper fals is typical of small-denomination coinage. High-points for grading would generally be the central design elements or the highest relief points of any inscription, which are frequently susceptible to wear. Technical strike qualities on such pieces often include weak strikes, particularly towards the flan edges, and potential off-centering, common for quickly produced copper issues from this period. The flan itself may exhibit irregularities inherent to the manufacturing process.