Catalog
| Issuer | Morocco |
|---|---|
| Year | 1976 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 50 Dirhams |
| Currency | Dirham (1960-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 35 g |
| Diameter | 42.09 mm |
| Thickness | 2.68 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Y#68 |
| Obverse description | Head left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Arabic |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Pointed artistic design with stars on points flanked by dates Note: Reverse inscriptions vary slightly for each date. |
| Reverse script | Arabic |
| Reverse lettering | 1976 1396 50 |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1396 (1976) - - 11 000 1396 (1976) - Proof - 4 400 |
| Numisquare ID | 1014162620 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1976 Moroccan 50 Dirhams commemorates the first anniversary of the pivotal Green March, a strategic initiative orchestrated by King Hassan II in November 1975. This audacious non-violent demonstration saw 350,000 unarmed Moroccan civilians march into the Spanish Sahara, asserting Morocco's territorial claims. The event was a defining moment in modern Moroccan history, leading to Spain's withdrawal and shaping North Africa's geopolitical landscape.
Artistry: While the specific engraver is not widely documented, the coin exemplifies a modern commemorative style blending national symbolism with narrative depiction. The obverse typically features a dignified portrait of King Hassan II, often rendered with subtle realism. The reverse powerfully illustrates the Green March itself, depicting a dense crowd of marchers carrying Moroccan flags and copies of the Quran, their advance symbolizing national unity. Inscriptions appear in Arabic and French.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 silver, weighing 35 grams and measuring 42.09 mm, this substantial coin presents key areas for evaluation. High-points for wear or strike weakness on the obverse include the king's hair and cheekbone. On the reverse, the raised flags and intricate details of the marchers' faces are critical. A well-struck example exhibits sharp definition in these areas, with full luster. Minor bag marks are not uncommon, but a strong strike and minimal contact marks are essential for premium grades.