Catálogo
| Emisor | Sudan |
|---|---|
| Año | 1780 |
| Tipo | Emergency coin |
| Valor | Riyal |
| Moneda | |
| Composición | Silver (.833) |
| Peso | 28 g |
| Diámetro | 41 mm |
| Grosor | 2.5 mm |
| Forma | Round |
| Técnica | Milled |
| Orientación | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Grabador(es) | |
| En circulación hasta | |
| Referencia(s) |
| Descripción del anverso | Right facing portrait of Empress Maria Theresia of Habsburg. Countermark: `احُمد ع` = Ahmad A |
|---|---|
| Escritura del anverso | Arabic, Latin |
| Leyenda del anverso |
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) |
| Descripción del reverso | Imperial double-headed eagle with the arms of Austria at the centre, surrounded by four quarters representing Hungary, Bohemia, Burgundy and Burgau (Günzburg). |
| Escritura del reverso | Latin |
| Leyenda del reverso |
ARCHID·AVST·DUX· BURG·CO·TYR·1780·X (Translation: Archduchess of Austria, duchess of Burgundy, comtess of Tyrol) |
| Canto | Inscripted |
| Casa de moneda | |
| Tirada |
1780 X - - |
| ID de Numisquare | 4121970510 |
| Información adicional |
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.