100 Riyals - Mohammed Papal Visit to Australia

Issuer Fujairah
Year 1970
Type Non-circulating coin
Value 100 Riyals
Currency Riyal (1966-1973)
Composition Gold (.900)
Weight 20.73 g
Diameter 35.5 mm
Thickness
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Coin alignment ↑↓
Engraver(s)
In circulation to 1973
Reference(s) KM#26, Fr#6, Schön#20
Obverse description Coat of Arms. `Al Fujairah` in Arabic on both flags; normally on the left flag, and mirrored on the right flag. Gold fineness in oval at lower right
Obverse script Arabic, Latin
Obverse lettering STATE OF FUJAIRAH حُكومَة الفجَيرة ١٠٠ ريال الفجيرة الفجيرة الفجيرة 1970 ١٣٨٩ - 100 F . RIYALS [900] -
(Translation: State of Fujairah 100 Fujairah Riyals Fujairah 1979 1389 100 F. Riyals [900])
Reverse description Pope`s profile facing right at left, crown with keys and kangaroo on map at right
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering PILGRIM IN AUSTRALIA - 1970
Edge Reeded
Mint
Mintage 1389 (1970) - ١٣٨٩ 1970 Proof - 250
1389 (1970) - ١٣٨٩ 1970 Proof Sets (Unlisted; All Fujairah) -
Numisquare ID 4625946140
Additional information

Historical Context:This 1970 100 Riyals gold coin was issued by the Emirate of Fujairah, one of the Trucial States under Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, prior to the UAE's formation in 1971. During this transitional period, many Trucial States issued commemorative coinage primarily for the international numismatic market. Commemorating Pope Paul VI's visit to Australia in 1970, a significant global event, highlights Fujairah's participation in this commercial trend, rather than a direct local connection.

Artistry:While the specific engraver remains unrecorded, the artistic style aligns with Western neo-classical or modern commemorative traditions prevalent in European mints striking coins for the Trucial States. The obverse likely features a stylized state emblem or a portrait of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi. The reverse would prominently display an effigy of Pope Paul VI, possibly with symbolic elements or an inscription marking his historic Australian visit. The design aims for dignified representation, characteristic of official commemorative portraiture.

Technical/Grading:Struck in .900 fine gold, weighing 20.73 grams and measuring 35.5 millimeters, this substantial coin was typically produced to high standards, often in proof or proof-like finishes. Key high-points for wear or weakness depend on the specific design, but generally include the highest relief areas of any portrait or intricate scene details. Collectors should examine fields for pristine reflectivity and devices for full strike, as minor contact marks or hairlines can significantly impact grade, especially for collector-intended issues.

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