Saudi Arabia 1 Riyal Bimetallic Coin, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz
Coin/Bullion · Saudi Central Bank (formerly Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority - SAMA)
Pattern: Sixth Issue of Saudi Currency (2016 Series)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Saudi Central Bank (formerly Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority - SAMA)
Material
Bimetallic; Center: Cupro-Nickel (Silver-colored), Ring: Brass (Gold-colored)
Dimensions
Diameter: 25.00 mm; Weight: 7.10 grams; Thickness: 1.85 mm
Description
A bimetallic 1 Riyal circulation coin from Saudi Arabia featuring the right-facing portrait of King Salman bin Abdulaziz. The silver-hued cupro-nickel center provides a sharp contrast against the golden brass outer ring which is decorated with intricate Islamic geometric patterns.
Key Features
Bimetallic construction, King Salman's portrait, intricate arabesque border engraving, and official SAMA symbols.
Material & Composition
Bimetallic; Center: Cupro-Nickel (Silver-colored), Ring: Brass (Gold-colored)
Finish & Decoration
Bimetallic contrast; obverse features the portrait of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, secondary patterns include geometric Islamic arabesque latticework and micro-text of the Kingdom's name.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Features Arabic calligraphy, the State Emblem (two crossed swords and a palm tree), and the denomination '1' in Arabic numeral.
Construction Details
Machine-struck bimetallic planchet via high-pressure industrial minting press.
Functional Features
Standard currency unit; reeded edge for tactile identification and to prevent clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
None; round flat coin form designed for circulation.
Craftsmanship Details
Reflects standard high-quality modern minting; clean separation between the two metals and high-resolution engraving on the King's portrait.
Authentication Indicators
Die-strike quality, specific weight of 7.1g, correct Arabic typography, and crisp edge reeding.
Origin & Manufacturing
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; likely minted at the SAMA mint or contracted to international mints like the Royal Mint (UK).
Era & Period
Modern Era (Salman era, 2016-present)
Age Estimate
Issued starting in 2016; appears to be a modern circulated specimen produced between 2016 and 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern financial identity of the Kingdom and the transition of Saudi currency during the 'Saudi Vision 2030' era.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (Circulated). Visible surface scratches, minor tarnish on the brass ring, and softening of the higher relief points on the King's headdress (shemagh).
Value Estimate
Face value: 1 Saudi Riyal (Approx. $0.27 USD). Collector value: $0.50 to $2.00 depending on mint luster.
Care & Maintenance
For circulated coins: do not clean with silver polish as it is not sterling; keep in a dry place. Collectors should use PVC-free flips.
Similar Pieces
The Saudi 2 Riyal coin (same bimetallic look but larger, featuring King Abdulaziz), other Gulf bimetallic coins like the UAE 1 Dirham (which is monochromatic cupro-nickel).
Interesting Facts
The 2016 series was significant as it replaced the 1 Riyal banknote with this coin format to increase durability and reduce long-term printing costs.