10 Poisha FAO, small type

Issuer Bangladesh
Year 1983-1994
Type Commemorative circulation coin
Value 10 Poisha
Currency Taka (1972-date)
Composition Aluminium
Weight 1.3900 g
Diameter 22 mm
Thickness 1.77 mm
Shape Scalloped (with 8 notches)
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#11.2, Schön#12
Obverse description The National Emblem of Bangladesh: a water lily bordered on two sides by rice sheaves. Above are a three-leaf clover of tea leaves and four stars representing the four principles of the first constitution of Bangladesh in 1972: nationalism, secularism, socialism, and democracy.
Obverse script
Obverse lettering
Reverse description A two kid family sitting face to face. The word `Bangladesh` and the face value in figures and in full
Reverse script Bengali
Reverse lettering বাংলাদেশ ১৯ ৯৪ দশ ১০ পয়সা
(Translation: Bangladesh 19 94 Ten 10 paisa)
Edge Smooth
Mint
Mintage 1983 - ১৯৮৩ - 142 848 000
1994 - ১৯৯৪ - 57 152 000
Numisquare ID 2571538380
Additional information

Historical Context: Issued by Bangladesh from 1983 to 1994, this 10 Poisha coin circulated during a period of political transition, moving from military rule to parliamentary democracy. Its inclusion in the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) series highlights Bangladesh's commitment to combating hunger and fostering agricultural self-sufficiency. This was a vital national objective for a developing nation, making this low-denomination coin a fundamental part of daily commerce.

Artistry: The design, typical of utilitarian circulation coinage, is generally attributed to the Bangladesh Bank's internal design department. The obverse prominently features the National Emblem of Bangladesh: a water lily flanked by two rice sheaves, with four stars above and three jute leaves below. The reverse carries the FAO "Food for All" theme, often represented by stylized agricultural elements like rice stalks or a plough, alongside the denomination. This "small type" (KM#11.2) is a minor variant from an earlier issue.

Technical/Grading: Struck in lightweight aluminium, this coin frequently exhibits characteristic strike weaknesses, especially on higher relief points. Key areas for assessing strike quality include the intricate details of the water lily and individual leaves within the National Emblem. On the reverse, the clarity and definition of the agricultural motifs and lettering are crucial. Due to the metal's softness and high-speed production, central devices often show flatness, and full detail on the stars and jute leaves is uncommon.

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