½ dirham, temp. Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali ND (1331-1351) front ½ dirham, temp. Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali ND (1331-1351) back
½ dirham, temp. Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali ND (1331-1351) photo
Obverse © @Adilson

½ dirham, temp. Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali ND

 
Silver 0.9 g -
Description
Issuer
Marinid dynasty
Sultan
Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Othman (أبو الحسن علي بن عثمان) (1331-1348)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1331-1351
Value
½ Dirham (7⁄20)
Currency
Dinar (1245-1465)
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.9 g
Size
14.5 × 14 mm
Shape
Square (irregular)
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#360247
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Script: Arabic

Interesting fact

The Marinid dynasty, which ruled Morocco and parts of North Africa from the 13th to the 15th century, was known for its striking coins with intricate designs and calligraphy. The ½ dirham coin from the reign of Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali (1331-1351) is particularly interesting because it features a unique blend of Islamic and Berber influences in its design. The coin's obverse side features a stylized Arabic inscription that reads "Al-Mu'ayyad Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali" (meaning "Abu'l-Hasan 'Ali, the one who is aided by God"), while the reverse side features a Berber motif of a crescent moon and a star, which is a common symbol in Berber art and culture. This blending of Islamic and Berber elements reflects the diverse cultural influences that shaped the Marinid dynasty and its art.