Rare 1878 Cairo Egypt Silver Coin 1293 AH Year 3 Twenty Para Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II

Description: Silver coin from Abdul Hamid II, the Ottoman Caliph who ascended the throne in 1876 AD (1293 AH). He ruled the Muslim empire in the period 1293-1327 AH (1876-1909 AD). This is a 20 Para coin or one half of a Qirsh or piastre. This silver coin indicates that it was struck in Abdul Hamid's 3rd year after ascending the throne which translates to 1878. It depicts Abdul Hamid the Second's toughra on the obverse with the denomination below it and a rose to the right. The reverse shows the mint (Misr), the year 1293 and the number 3 over the "beh" in the word Duribah. Small silver coins with low denomination and in good condition such as this are rare due to the fact that they have been used extensively and/or melted for the precious metal. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.

Date: This coin was struck in Abdul Hamid's third regnal year or 1878. Mint: Misr or Fustat on the outskirts of Cairo the current capital of Egypt.

Size and Weight: This is a 20 para, weighs about 0.55 grams of 83.3%25 silver and is ~15 mm in diameter.

References: It is KM #276.

Condition: I would grade this coin as good very fine or better. The coin has even wear to the high point throughout but the coin is still very distinct and very readable. It is nicely toned and has great eye appeal. The flan is intact and flat as opposed having nicks and curvature which is normally the case with these coins. The coin has no observable problem, but is soiled, has a few minor stains, a few scratches and bag marks, and wear commensurate with its circulated state. The coin itself is much better than the photos show with very well defined and legible calligraphy. A definite quality coin. Please see the photos presented for additional condition information.