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20 Para - Selim III French Occupation
| Issuer | Ottoman Imperial Mint (Egypt) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1800-1801 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
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| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | The reverse field bears a multi-line Arabic inscription arranged in three registers within a plain linear border, with a dotted inner circle framing the legends. The regnal year numeral ١٣ (13) appears prominently at the top center, followed by the mint and issue formula in bold naskh-style calligraphy. The Hijri accession year ١٢٠٣ (1203 AH) is inscribed at the base of the field. The dotted border is clearly defined and consistent with Cairo mint production of this period. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
When Napoleon's Egyptian expedition collapsed and French forces negotiated their withdrawal in 1801, the Ottoman administration faced the immediate problem of restoring monetary order in a province that had been effectively operating under French military currency for three years. This billon issue — struck at the Misr mint under Selim III's authority — was part of that reassertion of Ottoman fiscal control during the chaotic transitional period before the French evacuation was complete.
The billon alloy reflects chronic silver shortages that plagued Egyptian mint output throughout the late 18th century, a condition the French occupation did nothing to improve.