½ Abbasi Type T1; in the name of Karim Khan Zand, 1751-1779; Ganja ND
| Silver | 0.87 g | - |
| Issuer | Ganja Khanate (Caucasian Khanates) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1787-1791 |
| Value | ½ Abbasi |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.87 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-03 |
| Numista | N#197907 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Arabic legend surrounded by blank space with cartouche containing legend above and date below, all within dotted border.
Script: Arabic
Lettering:
يا الله
يا كريم
ضرب گنجه
[...]
Translation:
ya allah / ya karim / zarb ganja / [date]
Oh, Allah / Oh, Karim / Minted in Ganja / [date]
Edge
Plain
Comment
This type is based on the fifth Persian coin standard, which is identical to the second standard only with a reduced weight, with 1 Abbasi equal to 5 Shahi. The fifth standard went from 1200 (1786) to 1206 (1792), and the weights are typically between 2.3 to 2.6 grams.These are known as the "Georgian types" because, after Georgia gained control of the Ganja Khanate, the style of the coins changed dramatically.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Karim Khan Zand, who was the founder of the Zand dynasty and ruled over a large portion of modern-day Iran, including the Ganja Khanate. Despite being made of silver, the coin weighs only 0.87 grams, which is relatively light compared to other coins of similar composition. This may indicate that the coin was intended for everyday use and was not meant to be a high-value denomination. Additionally, the fact that it was minted in the name of Karim Khan Zand suggests that it may have been used as a way to promote his image and legitimacy as a ruler.
