Iranian Fine Silver (.999) Cast Bullion Bar, 6.666 Gram Silver Ingot
Coin/Bullion · Public Treasury/Mint of Iran (or associated national refinery). The Arabic/Farsi inscriptions and stamps indicate historical Iranian production, specifically featuring official assay marks.
Pattern: Standard Cast Ingot; unique serial number series for state-backed bullion.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Public Treasury/Mint of Iran (or associated national refinery). The Arabic/Farsi inscriptions and stamps indicate historical Iranian production, specifically featuring official assay marks.
Material
Fine Silver (.999 purity). The bar is stamped '999' indicating 99.9% pure silver, often referred to as three-nines fine.
Dimensions
Weight: 6.666 grams (indicated on bar). Dimensions: Approximately 50mm x 20mm x 5mm. Note: The 6.666 weight is unusual for international trade but suggests a specialized Iranian unit of measurement or an intentional partial pour.
Description
An authentic Iranian silver bullion bar, this piece is a fascinating example of nationalized precious metal investment. Unlike standard 1oz or 1kg international bars, this smaller ingot features distinctive Farsi script and local stamps. The surface has developed a dark, matte grey tarnish characteristic of pure silver exposed to air over several decades.
Key Features
Unique serial number '18435'; high purity '999' stamp; rare '6.666' weight denomination; official Iranian treasury seals.
Material & Composition
Fine Silver (.999 purity). The bar is stamped '999' indicating 99.9% pure silver, often referred to as three-nines fine.
Finish & Decoration
Industrial cast finish with manual stamps. Surface shows cooling ripples and heavy handling tarnish (sulfide oxidation). Decoration is restricted to functional alphanumeric characters and treasury seals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Functional Iranian hallmarks including a serial number (18435), the weight (6.666), the purity (999), and two circular official stamps containing Farsi text, likely identifying the refinery or treasury office (Sherkat-e-Melli-ye-Zarrin).
Construction Details
Open-mold cast bar. The silver was melted and poured into a graphite or iron mold, allowed to cool, then cold-stamped with dies and hammers to apply the serial and weight numbers.
Functional Features
Investment bullion meant for value storage. The serial number provides a trackable record for bank vaulting or treasury records.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; designed for stacking and industrial storage. Rounded edges due to the casting process.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast evidence: ripple marks on the sides/bottom. Stamping: The numbers '6.666' and '999' show varying depths, indicating a hand-stamping process rather than automated machine striking.
Authentication Indicators
Properly struck stamps with slight 'overflow' edges consistent with hand-hammered dies. Metal tarnish is consistent with .999 high-purity silver. Weight must be verified on a diamond scale to confirm the '6.666' stamp.
Origin & Manufacturing
Iran (specifically Tehran or national refinery centers). Manufactured under state-regulated quality control for precious metals.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary Era (late 20th to 21st century). The font style and stamp crispness suggest mid-to-late 20th-century technology.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1990. Based on the stamping style and the specific wear patterns on the silver.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stabilization of wealth within the Iranian economy and the state's role in certifying the value of precious metals for its citizens.
Condition Notes
Good structural condition. High tarnish (patina) is present. Numerous surface micro-scratches from friction against other bars. No signs of drilling or metal removal.
Value Estimate
Spot silver price plus a 15-25% 'collectibility' premium due to the unique origin and stamps. Market value varies significantly based on current silver exchange rates.
Care & Maintenance
To preserve value as bullion, minimal cleaning is required. If desired, a soft microfiber cloth can be used. Avoid abrasive cleaners which can remove silver mass and affect the weight measurement.
Similar Pieces
Standard 10g or 5g PAMP Suisse bars (though these are machine struck/polished), or vintage Johnson Matthey cast bars which share the industrial 'poured' aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
Iran has a rich history of silver mining and refining dating back to the Achaemenid Empire. Modern Iranian bullion bars are rarely seen in Western markets due to trade restrictions and sanctions, making them a curiosity for numismatists.