Abbasid Dirham – The Calligraphy of Faith (9th–10th Century CE)

Description:

This remarkable silver Dirham from the Abbasid Caliphate beautifully showcases early Islamic calligraphy and craftsmanship. Struck during the height of the Abbasid dynasty (750–1258 CE), the coin features the powerful Islamic declaration of faith—La ilaha illallah, wahdahu la sharika lahu (“There is no god but Allah, alone without partner”)—prominently inscribed on one side. The reverse bears Qur’anic inscriptions and official mint markings, emphasizing both spiritual devotion and the Caliphate’s administrative precision.

Historical Significance:

The Abbasid Caliphate represented a golden age of Islamic culture, where science, philosophy, trade, and art flourished. Coins like this Dirham were not merely currency; they were carriers of faith and political legitimacy, circulating across vast territories from North Africa to Central Asia. This particular specimen highlights the Abbasid commitment to calligraphic beauty and uniform coinage standards, vital for a thriving medieval economy.

Material: Silver

Dimensions: Typical Dirham size (~2.5–3g)

Region: Likely minted in Baghdad or a major provincial city

Era: Abbasid Caliphate, 9th–10th Century CE