Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Silver Qirsh / Riyal Coin
Coin/Bullion · Saudi Arabian Government Mint, Makkah or associated official mint facilities operating under the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA).
Pattern: Saudi Arabian Circulation Coinage featuring the national emblem of a palm tree above crossed swords, standard issue.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Saudi Arabian Government Mint, Makkah or associated official mint facilities operating under the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA).
Material
Low-purity silver alloy, typically .500 or .916 fine silver depending on the exact denomination and issuing year, mixed with copper for durability in circulation.
Dimensions
Small circular coin measuring approximately 15 to 25 mm in diameter (typical for lower denomination fractional silver coins of the region), weighing approximately 1 to 6 grams.
Description
A compact, historically significant silver circulation coin from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia resting in the palm of an open hand. The obverse prominently displays the national crest featuring a detailed palm tree surmounting two crossed swords, encircled by elaborate Arabic calligraphic legends indicating the issuing authority and monetary value.
Key Features
Distinctive Saudi national emblem (palm tree and crossed swords), intricate Arabic script, circular planchet, and genuine circulation wear.
Material & Composition
Low-purity silver alloy, typically .500 or .916 fine silver depending on the exact denomination and issuing year, mixed with copper for durability in circulation.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a matte to polished finish. Features raised Arabic script inscriptions along the outer border and the iconic Saudi national emblem (palm tree and crossed swords) centrally impressed.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Arabic text indicating the issuing authority, denomination, and Islamic calendar (Hijri) minting year, struck directly into the metallic planchet during the coining process.
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure coin presses, utilizing specially prepared metal planchets and hardened steel dies.
Functional Features
Standard circulating monetary medium designed for portability, durability, and secure financial transactions within the Middle East.
Handle & Grip Details
Plain or reeded edge typical of standard circular currency, designed without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered die-stamped coinage exhibiting clean lettering, sharp relief on the central emblem, and standardized industrial minting quality.
Authentication Indicators
Correct weight, diameter, and metallurgical composition consistent with mid-century Middle Eastern mint output. Clear strike depth and authentic edge characteristics.
Origin & Manufacturing
Originates from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, produced under strict government oversight for national monetary circulation.
Era & Period
Mid to Late 20th Century (Post-WWII / Modern Era), corresponding to the reigns of Saudi monarchs such as King Abdulaziz or King Faisal.
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1950s to 1970s, determined by the style of the Arabic lettering and the national emblem.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the rich heritage, Islamic traditions, and national pride of Saudi Arabia, serving as both an everyday medium of exchange and a symbol of state sovereignty.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine condition with noticeable surface wear, minor scratches, and uniform tarnish appropriate for a handled circulation coin. Retains full readability of the central design and main inscriptions.
Value Estimate
Modest numismatic and bullion value, generally ranging from $10 to $50 USD depending on the exact year, silver weight, and preservation grade.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry, inert environment such as an archival coin flip or capsule. Avoid harsh chemical dips or abrasive polishing to preserve the historic surface patina and numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Other Middle Eastern silver coins from Egypt, Syria, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan minted during the same era.
Interesting Facts
Saudi silver coins serve as physical testaments to the rapid modernization and economic evolution of the Kingdom following the discovery of oil and the establishment of its centralized monetary system.