Catalog
| Issuer | United Arab Emirates |
|---|---|
| Year | 1980 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 50 Dirhams |
| Currency | Dirham (1973-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 27.22 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#7 |
| Obverse description | Denomination in Arabic characters surrounded by name of the country Mintmark: CHI |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Arabic, Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
الامارات العربية المتحدة ٥٠ درهماً [CHI] UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (Translation: United Arab Emirates 50 Dirhams) |
| Reverse description | Conjoined standing figures with UNICEF (left) and IYC (right) emblems at sides. Dates at the bottom. |
| Reverse script | Arabic, Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE CHILD ١٤٠٠ 1980 (Translation: 1400 1980) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
CHI Valcambi SA, Balerna,Switzerland |
| Mintage |
1400 (1980) CHI - ١٤٠٠ 1980 Proof - 8 031 |
| Numisquare ID | 3963388170 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1980, this 50 Dirhams coin commemorates the International Youth Year (IYC), a United Nations initiative, though the official year was 1985. The coin's issuance in 1980 reflects the United Arab Emirates' proactive engagement with global humanitarian efforts and its commitment to fostering youth development under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the nation's founder. This period marked the early consolidation of the UAE, establishing its identity as a progressive and internationally-minded state.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains uncredited, the design adheres to a modern numismatic aesthetic, blending traditional Arabic calligraphy for the denomination and inscriptions with contemporary representational imagery. The obverse prominently features the national emblem, the falcon, symbolizing strength and heritage, alongside the denomination and dual Gregorian and Hijri dates. The reverse showcases the official International Youth Year emblem, encircled by inscriptions in both Arabic and English, emphasizing the coin's commemorative purpose and the UAE's bilingual approach.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 fine silver with a substantial weight of 27.22 grams and a diameter of 40 millimeters, this coin presents a significant canvas for its design. Key high-points for condition assessment include the fine details of the falcon's plumage on the obverse and the intricate lines within the IYC emblem on the reverse. Well-preserved examples should exhibit a sharp strike, particularly in the delicate Arabic script and the relief elements, often displaying lustrous fields characteristic of carefully produced commemorative issues.