Catalog
| Issuer | Sudan |
|---|---|
| Year | 1780 |
| Type | Emergency coin |
| Value | Riyal |
| Currency | |
| Composition | Silver (.833) |
| Weight | 28 g |
| Diameter | 41 mm |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Right facing portrait of Empress Maria Theresia of Habsburg. Countermark: `احُمد ع` = Ahmad A |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Arabic, Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
M·THERESIA·D·G· R·IMP·HU·BO·REG· احُمد ع S·F· (Translation: Maria-Theresia, by the Grace of God, Roman Empress, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia Ahmad A) |
| Reverse description | Imperial double-headed eagle with the arms of Austria at the centre, surrounded by four quarters representing Hungary, Bohemia, Burgundy and Burgau (Günzburg). |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ARCHID·AVST·DUX· BURG·CO·TYR·1780·X (Translation: Archduchess of Austria, duchess of Burgundy, comtess of Tyrol) |
| Edge | Inscripted |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1780 X - - |
| Numisquare ID | 4121970510 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1780 Riyal Countermarked Thaler reflects Sudan's late 18th-century economic landscape during the fragmented Funj Sultanate. Lacking a central mint, the region relied heavily on foreign silver, notably the Maria Theresa Thaler. The countermark legitimized these coins for local trade, re-denominating them as "Riyal"—a common regional term. This practice illustrates the pragmatic adaptation of available currency and local authorities' efforts to establish monetary control without indigenous coinage.
Artistry: The artistry centers on the superimposed countermark, distinct from the host coin's original Baroque design, typically depicting Empress Maria Theresa. The engraver is unknown; its stylistic school is utilitarian and locally inspired. Designs usually feature simple Arabic calligraphy or a geometric symbol, functioning as an official or merchant's mark. This stark, deeply impressed design provided immediate recognition and local identity.
Technical/Grading: The coin's specifications—.833 silver, 28 grams, 41 millimeters—are consistent with the Maria Theresa Thaler. Grading prioritizes the countermark's clarity and depth. High-points, such as calligraphy edges or symbols, should be sharply defined. A strong, even impression avoiding excessive obliteration of underlying host coin details signifies superior technical strike quality. Prior wear on the host coin also affects numismatic preservation.