4 Kharub - Abdulmecid I

Historical Context: This 4 Kharub coin, issued in 1840, firmly places Tunisia within the Ottoman sphere during Sultan Abdulmecid I's reign (1839-1861). Though an autonomous Husainid Beylik under the Husainid dynasty, Tunisian coinage often acknowledged the Ottoman Sultan as suzerain. Abdulmecid I's era initiated the Tanzimat reforms, a period of significant modernization within the Ottoman Empire. This coin thus symbolizes the complex relationship between Ottoman central authority and its semi-autonomous North African regencies, reflecting continuity amidst broader imperial changes.

Artistry: The engraver of this specific coin remains anonymous, a common circumstance for circulating issues of the period. Stylistically, the 4 Kharub adheres to the established Ottoman calligraphic tradition. The obverse typically features the ornate Tughra, the distinctive calligraphic monogram of Sultan Abdulmecid I, serving as both a signature and a symbol of imperial authority. The reverse bears an Arabic inscription, detailing the mint (Tunis) and the Hegira date (1256 AH, corresponding to 1840 AD). The design emphasizes clarity and the revered art of Islamic calligraphy, characteristic of the region's numismatic art.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, with a weight of 3 grams and a diameter of 20 millimeters, this denomination was intended for everyday commerce. For grading, key high-points to examine for wear include the intricate loops and flourishes of the Sultan's Tughra and the finer details and diacritics within the Arabic inscriptions. Billon coinage of this era often exhibits inherent strike weaknesses, resulting in areas of flatness, particularly on the outer edges or less prominent parts of the design. Planchet quality can vary, with some examples showing minor laminations or irregular flans, and original luster is generally minimal or absent.