1 Tanka - Badr al-Din al-Jazira

Historical Context: This 1 Tanka silver issue hails from the Bukhti Emirate, a Kurdish principality in Upper Mesopotamia, under the rule of Emir Badr al-Din al-Jazira during his reign from 1465 to 1469. The issuance of this coinage underscores the emirate's assertion of sovereignty and economic autonomy amidst a turbulent period marked by the decline of larger regional powers and the rise of various Turkmen confederations. Such coins served as vital instruments for proclaiming the ruler's authority and legitimacy across his domains.

Artistry: Characteristic of Islamic numismatic tradition, the artistry of this Tanka is primarily epigraphic. The design would have been executed by a skilled calligrapher-engraver, reflecting the prevailing stylistic schools of the era, likely Naskh or Thuluth script for the main legends. The obverse typically features the ruler's name and titles, while the reverse often bears the Kalima (Shahada) and possibly the mint and date. The aesthetic appeal lies in the elegance, legibility, and balanced arrangement of the Arabic inscriptions.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver with a weight of 3.70 grams, this coin's technical quality is assessed by the clarity of its central legends, which represent the highest points of the die. Key indicators for grading include the evenness of the strike, the sharpness of the calligraphic elements, and the preservation of the often-delicate outer inscriptions. Minor flan irregularities or off-centering are common for issues of this period, but a strong, well-centered strike with fully legible legends would command a premium.