1 Fals - Nizam al-Dawla Abuʾl-Muzaffar Tungha-Tegin Samarqand

Historical Context: This 1 Fals coin hails from the United Qarakhanid Khaganate, minted in Samarqand during the period of 1009-1014 CE. It bears the name of Nizam al-Dawla Abuʾl-Muzaffar Tungha-Tegin, a prominent figure, likely a regional ruler or governor within the broader Qarakhanid confederation. The Qarakhanids, a Turkic dynasty, dominated Transoxiana and Central Asia, known for their decentralized structure and the issuance of coinage by various branches or sub-rulers. This copper fals, a crucial denomination for daily commerce, underscores the economic vitality and political autonomy exercised by local potentates like Tungha-Tegin in key urban centers such as Samarqand, a city of immense strategic and commercial importance. The period reflects the zenith of Qarakhanid power before later fragmentation.

Artistry: The artistry of this fals adheres to the established Islamic numismatic tradition, characterized by its aniconic and epigraphic design. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the stylistic school is distinctly Qarakhanid, employing elegant Kufic script to convey religious declarations, the ruler's titles, and mint information. The substantial diameter of 26 mm for a copper coin of this era allowed for a clear and expansive display of the inscriptions, including the honorific "Nizam al-Dawla" and the Turkic title "Tungha-Tegin." The design typically features the Kalima (declaration of faith) on one side, often surrounded by the mint and date, with the ruler's name and titles occupying the reverse, demonstrating a sophisticated calligraphic aesthetic rather than pictorial representation.

Technical/Grading: This copper fals, weighing 2.73 grams and measuring 26 mm, presents typical technical characteristics for its type. High-points for preservation assessment would primarily be the raised elements of the Kufic calligraphy, particularly the central legends and any decorative flourishes, which are often the first to show wear. The strike quality, common for utilitarian copper issues, can vary significantly; examples may exhibit off-centering, incomplete legends due to dies larger than the flan, or areas of weakness. The flan itself, while broad, is relatively thin, which can contribute to uneven strikes. Given its copper composition and age, patination or surface corrosion is frequently encountered, impacting the legibility of finer details and the overall grade.