Three Abbasid Dinars from the Reign of Caliph Hārūn al-Rashīd (170–193 AH / 786–809 AD) Preserved in the Mallawi Museum: An Archaeological and Numismatic Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Asso. Prof. Islamic Art & Archeology Faculty of Tourism & Hotels Management, Suez Canal University

2 Lecturer of Islamic Art & Archeology Higher Institute of Tourism & Hotels, Hurghada

Abstract

This paper examines three unpublished Abbasid gold dinars preserved in the Mallawi Museum, attributed to the reign of Caliph Hārūn al-Rashīd (170–193 AH / 786–809 AD). The study applies an archaeological and analytical approach, focusing on inscriptions, design features, and stylistic comparisons with other Abbasid coins. The findings reveal that these dinars exhibit a simple Kufic script that combines features of both angular and cursive forms, leaning toward abstraction and free of ornamentation. The inscriptions present a quasi-Qur’anic wording, not a direct citation, emphasizing Abbasid legitimacy and their affiliation with the Prophet’s family. The analysis also highlights the persistence of some early Islamic epigraphic traditions-such as specific letter forms and numeral renderings-alongside new stylistic trends emerging in the 2nd century AH / 8th century AD. Furthermore, the absence of mint names suggests that the coins were struck in the Abbasid capital under direct caliphal supervision. These dinars, therefore, constitute significant historical, artistic, and religious artifacts that contribute to numismatic scholarship and enhance our understanding of the evolution of Islamic coinage in the early Abbasid era.

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