Falus four petal flower

Historical Context: This copper falus, minted in Herat in 1800, emerges from a period of significant political flux within the Durrani Empire. While nominally under the suzerainty of Zaman Shah Durrani, Herat often functioned with considerable autonomy, frequently contested by various Durrani princes and local governors. The issuance of this falus, a foundational denomination for daily commerce, underscores the city's ongoing economic activity and the assertion of local authority amidst broader regional instability. Such copper coinage was vital for local trade, reflecting the functioning of the urban economy despite the turbulent political landscape.

Artistry: The design, featuring a distinctive four-petal flower, exemplifies the stylized floral motifs common in Islamic numismatic art of the era. While the engraver remains anonymous, the aesthetic adheres to the Persianate artistic traditions prevalent across Central Asia and Afghanistan. The flower likely served as a mint mark, a decorative element, or possibly a symbolic representation, providing a clear visual identity for the coinage of Herat. Its execution on a small 15mm planchet necessitated a bold yet simple design, prioritizing legibility over intricate detail.

Technical/Grading: This falus, weighing 4.2 grams, typically exhibits the practical manufacturing standards of the period. High points susceptible to wear include the raised edges of the four-petal flower and the finer lines of the accompanying calligraphy. Technical strike qualities often vary; planchets can be irregular or slightly off-center, and strikes may appear weak, particularly towards the periphery. A well-preserved example would boast a strong, centered strike with clear definition of the floral motif and legible date and mint information, free from significant corrosion.