20 Baiza - Said

Issuer Muscat and Oman
Year 1946
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 20 Baiza (0.1)
Currency Saidi rial (1946-1970)
Composition Copper-nickel
Weight
Diameter
Thickness
Shape Square with rounded corners
Technique Milled
Orientation
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#27, Schön#16
Obverse description Twenty baisa
Obverse script Arabic
Obverse lettering عشرون بيزه ٢٠
Reverse description Sultan of Muscat and Oman Sa`id bin Taimur
Reverse script Arabic
Reverse lettering سلطان مسقط وعمان سعيد بن تيمور ١٣٦٥
Edge Plain
Mint
Mintage 1365 (1946) - ١٣٦۵ - 1 135 000
1365 (1946) - ١٣٦۵ Proof -
1365 (1946) - ١٣٦۵ Proof Sets (KM#PS2) -
Numisquare ID 1452976510
Additional information

Historical Context: The 1946 20 Baiza was issued under Sultan Said bin Taimur, who governed Muscat and Oman from 1932 to 1970. This post-World War II era saw the Sultanate maintain its traditional character amidst global changes. As a fractional copper-nickel denomination, it was essential for daily commerce, asserting sovereign monetary authority and supporting the local economy during a period of gradual, internal development. This coin reflects the Sultanate's self-sufficiency in its monetary system.

Artistry: The coin's design follows Islamic numismatic tradition, favoring clear calligraphic inscriptions. No specific engraver is typically recorded for these circulation issues. The stylistic school prioritizes legibility and symbolic representation. The obverse likely features Sultan Said bin Taimur's distinctive Tughra alongside the Hijri date. The reverse displays the "20 Baiza" denomination and "Muscat and Oman" in elegant Arabic script, reflecting the Sultanate's cultural heritage and ensuring easy identification for its populace.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this coin exhibits moderate relief. Key high-points for wear assessment include the uppermost curves of the Sultan's Tughra on the obverse, and the finer details within the Arabic calligraphy on the reverse. A well-struck example will show crisp, full details in these areas. Weak strikes, if present, often manifest as softness in intricate calligraphic flourishes, particularly centrally or at the peripheries. Planchet quality is generally consistent, but minor imperfections can occur.

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