Mangir - Anonymous

Historical Context: The Beylik of Eretna emerged as a significant power in central Anatolia following the decline of Ilkhanid authority. Founded by Eretna Bey, a former Ilkhanid governor of Uyghur origin, the beylik established itself amidst the political fragmentation of the mid-14th century. The year 1351 falls within the early reign of Ghiyath al-Din Muhammad I, Eretna’s son and successor, who continued to consolidate the beylik’s position against rival Anatolian principalities and the nascent Ottoman state. Copper mangirs like this one were fundamental for daily commerce, reflecting the economic realities of a decentralized regional power.

Artistry: As an anonymous issue, specific engraver attribution for this mangir is not feasible. The design adheres to the established Islamic numismatic tradition of the era, prioritizing aniconic calligraphic inscriptions over figural representations. Such coinage typically features religious formulae, the ruler's name or titles, and the minting date, often arranged within simple geometric or linear borders. Given its modest 17mm module, the design would be concise and functional, characteristic of utilitarian copper issues intended for widespread circulation. The stylistic school reflects a local Anatolian aesthetic, drawing influences from earlier Seljuk and Ilkhanid prototypes.

Technical/Grading: This copper mangir, with a weight of 1.35g and a diameter of 17mm, represents a typical low-denomination coin. High-points would generally encompass the raised elements of the Arabic script and any central devices. Given the production methods for copper coinage of this period, often struck quickly and with less precision than higher denominations, a perfectly centered and fully struck example is uncommon. Expect potential off-centering, areas of weak strike, and minor planchet imperfections. Grading would primarily focus on the legibility of the inscriptions and the overall preservation of the coin’s surfaces, considering copper’s susceptibility to wear and environmental corrosion.