Catalog
| Issuer | Morocco |
|---|---|
| Year | 1854-1859 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Falus |
| Currency | Hammered/Cast Coinage (1659-1882) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 3.53 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | C#122b.4 |
| Obverse description | Seal of Solomon |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Date letters with mint letter above, NO separating line between |
| Reverse script | Arabic |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1270 (1854) - inverted date - 1270 (1854) - normal date - 1271 (1855) - - 1271 (1855) - `1721` Error date for 1271 - 1272 (1856) - - 1273 (1857) - - 1273 (1857) 2 - 1273/2 with reversed `3` - 1274 (1858) - - 1275 (1859) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1140324770 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Falus coin, a 3rd Standard issue from Rabat, was minted during the latter part of Sultan Moulay 'Abd al-Rahman's reign (1822-1859). The 1854-1859 period was critical for Morocco, marked by increasing European pressure. Moulay 'Abd al-Rahman maintained internal stability and centralized authority. The Falus served as the ubiquitous bronze currency for daily commerce, reflecting the continuity of the Moroccan monetary system amidst external challenges.
Artistry: The design of this Falus adheres to traditional Moroccan numismatic style, emphasizing a purely epigraphic approach. While the engraver is anonymous, common for base metal coinage, the coin features characteristic Arabic calligraphy. The obverse typically presents the Sultan's name and titles or a religious invocation. The reverse identifies the mint, Rabat, and the Hegira date. The "3rd Standard" denotes a specific design variant or weight within the Falus series for this reign.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (3.53 grams, 18 millimeters), this Falus exhibits traits typical of hand-struck Moroccan coinage. High-points for wear are the central elements of the calligraphic inscriptions, especially taller letterforms. Due to production, examples often show variable strike quality, including minor off-centering, uneven planchets, and areas of flatness. Corrosion is a common factor affecting preservation of these bronze issues, impacting surface detail and overall grade.