Mangir - Mehemed b. Umur 'Musaoğlu II Umur Bey'

Historical Context: This Mangir was issued by Mehemed b. Umur, 'Musaoğlu II Umur Bey,' of the Aydin Beylik (1403-1405). This era immediately followed the 1402 Battle of Ankara, where Timur defeated Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I, temporarily collapsing the Ottoman state. This allowed many Anatolian Beyliks, including Aydin, to reassert independence. Mehemed b. Umur's coinage symbolizes the Aydınoğlu dynasty's brief resurgence and consolidation of ancestral territories during the Ottoman Interregnum.

Artistry: The engraver of this copper mangir is unknown, typical for Beylik coinage. Stylistically, it aligns with the epigraphic tradition of Islamic numismatics, prioritizing clear, functional Arabic calligraphy over elaborate designs. The design prominently features the ruler's name and titles, "Mehemed b. Umur" and likely "Musaoğlu II Umur Bey," often within a central field or simple geometric device. This epigraphic emphasis asserted authority and facilitated local commerce.

Technical/Grading: As a copper mangir, this coin frequently displays characteristics common to lower-denomination issues of the early 15th century. High-points for wear or strike quality are typically the central calligraphic elements and any surrounding decorative motifs. Technical strike qualities vary, often showing irregular planchets, off-center strikes, and areas of weak impression, especially at the peripheries. The small 17mm diameter and light 1.92g weight frequently result in partial strikes or uneven metal flow, necessitating careful legend examination for grading.