Dirham - Minuchihr III b. Afridun

Historical Context: This bronze dirham belongs to Minuchihr III b. Afridun, a prominent ruler of the Shirvanshah dynasty, whose reign spanned approximately 1120-1160. The Shirvanshahs, a long-lived Persianate dynasty in the Caucasus, maintained a delicate balance of power between the formidable Seljuk Empire and the rising Georgian kingdom. Minuchihr III's era was marked by efforts to assert regional autonomy and foster economic stability, with his coinage serving as a tangible symbol of his authority and the local economy's vitality, particularly for daily commerce.

Artistry: The anonymous engraver of this period typically produced dies reflecting local Islamic numismatic traditions. The stylistic school is characterized by an emphasis on epigraphy, with the coin's design likely featuring the Kalima (Islamic declaration of faith) and the name of the issuer, Minuchihr III b. Afridun. These legends would have been rendered in a regional variant of Kufic or Naskh script, demonstrating the calligraphic artistry prevalent in Islamic coin production, often with a central device or marginal legend, tailored for local circulation.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 10.6 grams, this bronze dirham exhibits a substantial planchet for its type. High-points susceptible to wear typically include the central devices of the obverse and reverse, and the outer reaches of the legends. Technical strike qualities for Shirvanshah bronze issues often show variability; common characteristics include minor off-centering, slight weakness in strike, or planchet irregularities inherent to the hand-striking process. A well-preserved example would retain full legends and clear central motifs, reflecting its original die state.