7 500 000 Lira Flowers - Lords and Ladies

Historical Context: Issued by the Republic of Turkey in 2002, this 7,500,000 Lira silver commemorative coin reflects a period of significant economic flux, preceding the 2005 revaluation where six zeroes were dropped from the currency. The high denomination underscores the inflationary pressures of the era. The "Flowers - Lords and Ladies" theme likely celebrates the rich botanical diversity of Anatolia, specifically referencing *Arum maculatum* or a similar native species. This series served to highlight Turkey's natural heritage amidst a modernizing state under President Ahmet Necdet Sezer, engaging in international relations and domestic economic reforms.

Artistry: The design and engraving for this issue were almost certainly executed by the artisans of the Turkish State Mint (Darphane ve Damga Matbaası Genel Müdürlüğü) in Istanbul. The stylistic approach is characteristic of early 21st-century modern numismatic art, favoring a realistic and detailed portrayal of the natural subject. The "Lords and Ladies" motif would have been rendered with careful attention to botanical accuracy, showcasing the distinctive inflorescence and foliage. Individual engraver signatures are not typically found on standard Turkish commemorative issues of this period, maintaining an institutional anonymity for the design team.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading of this .925 silver issue, particular attention should be paid to the highest relief points. On the obverse, wear or contact marks will first manifest on the tips of the crescent and star, and the highest contours of the national emblem. On the reverse, critical areas for preservation include the delicate venation of the spathe and leaves of the "Lords and Ladies" flower, as well as the intricate texture of the spadix. The fine lines defining the plant's structure and any subtle shading within the motif are highly susceptible to abrasion, impacting the coin's overall grade.