5 Qirsh

Issuer Egypt
Year 1956-1957
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 5 Piastres (0.05 EGP)
Currency Pound (1916-date)
Composition Silver (.720) (Copper .280)
Weight 3.5 g
Diameter 22 mm
Thickness 0.95 mm
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#382, Schön#84
Obverse description Denomination within wings
Obverse script Arabic
Obverse lettering مِصر جُمهورية ٥ قروش
(Translation: Egypt Republic 5 Qirsh)
Reverse description Small sphinx with outlined base.
Reverse script Arabic
Reverse lettering ١٣٧٥ - ١٩٥٦
(Translation: 1956 - 1375)
Edge Milled
Mint
Mintage 1375 (1956) - ١٣٧٥ - ١٩٥٦ -
1376 (1956) - ١٣٧٦ - ١٩٥٦ -
1376 (1957) - ١٣٧٦ - ١٩٥٧ -
Numisquare ID 1004080920
Additional information

Historical Context: This 5 Qirsh coin, issued by Egypt in 1956-1957, emerged during a pivotal era. Following the 1952 revolution and Republic's establishment in 1953, Gamal Abdel Nasser became president in 1956. This period was defined by fervent Arab nationalism and a definitive break from colonial influence. The coin's issuance coincided with the Suez Crisis, a watershed moment solidifying Nasser's leadership and Egypt's independent stance, marking the nascent Republic's early coinage.

Artistry: Specific engraver details are often undocumented for this series; however, the coin's design reflects the modern republican aesthetic. The stylistic school emphasized national identity and sovereignty, moving away from monarchical or colonial iconography. The obverse typically features the denomination in Arabic script alongside the Hijri and Gregorian dates. The reverse commonly displays the national emblem, such as an eagle, symbolizing strength and independence, rendered with clear, bold lines for mass production.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .720 fine silver, weighing 3.5 grams and measuring 22 millimeters, this 5 Qirsh coin exhibits characteristics typical of circulating coinage. High-points for grading include intricate details of the national emblem, particularly feathers and head, and the crispness of Arabic calligraphy. Strike quality is generally consistent, though minor planchet imperfections or slight weakness in highest relief areas, such as the eagle's breast or wingtips, can be observed due to high-speed minting processes.

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