Riyal Countermarked Thaler

İhraççı Sudan
Yıl 1780
Tür Emergency coin
Değer Riyal
Para birimi
Bileşim Silver (.833)
Ağırlık 28 g
Çap 41 mm
Kalınlık 2.5 mm
Şekil Round
Teknik Milled
Yönlendirme Medal alignment ↑↑
Gravürcü(ler)
Dolaşımda olduğu yıl
Referans(lar)
Ön yüz açıklaması Right facing portrait of Empress Maria Theresia of Habsburg. Countermark: `احُمد ع` = Ahmad A
Ön yüz yazısı Arabic, Latin
Ön yüz lejandı 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)
Arka yüz açıklaması Imperial double-headed eagle with the arms of Austria at the centre, surrounded by four quarters representing Hungary, Bohemia, Burgundy and Burgau (Günzburg).
Arka yüz yazısı Latin
Arka yüz lejandı ARCHID·AVST·DUX· BURG·CO·TYR·1780·X
(Translation: Archduchess of Austria, duchess of Burgundy, comtess of Tyrol)
Kenar Inscripted
Darphane
Basma adedi 1780 X - -
Numisquare Kimliği 4121970510
Ek bilgiler

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.

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