United Arab Emirates 1 Dirham Coin featuring Dallah (Arabic Coffee Pot)
Coin/Bullion · Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates; minted by various global mints including the Royal Mint (UK) and others.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Emblematic Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates; minted by various global mints including the Royal Mint (UK) and others.
Material
Copper-Nickel (Cupro-Nickel). This is a base metal circulation coin containing no silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.0 mm; Thickness: 1.9 mm; Weight: 6.4 grams.
Description
A standard circulation 1 Dirham coin from the United Arab Emirates. The obverse features the iconic Dallah, a traditional Arabic coffee pot symbolizing the region's deep-rooted culture of hospitality and generosity.
Key Features
Central Dallah motif; Arabic text for 'United Arab Emirates' and '1 Dirham'; dual-dated with Gregorian and Hijri years.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel (Cupro-Nickel). This is a base metal circulation coin containing no silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike; features the Dallah (traditional Arabic coffee pot) in raised relief, representing hospitality. Includes the Hijri and Gregorian years in Arabic numerals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Arabic script identifying the United Arab Emirates and the denomination '1 Dirham'. No precious metal hallmarks as it is base metal.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck/milled coinage.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for security and tactile identification; legal tender status in the UAE.
Handle & Grip Details
None; flat coin surface.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial production with clean borders and consistent weight tolerances.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive weight, diameter, and magnetic properties of Cupro-Nickel; high-relief sharp striking characteristic of official mint production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Arab Emirates (Issued); Manufacturing often outsourced to high-capacity international sovereign mints.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Late 20th Century to Present).
Age Estimate
Issued between 1995 and 2023 based on the smaller size variation (post-1995).
Cultural Significance
Represents 'Diwan' or 'Majlis' culture where coffee is served to guests as a sign of respect and welcome.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good circulation wear. Visible surface scratches and minor oxidation consistent with pocket change.
Value Estimate
Face value (1 AED = approx. $0.27 USD). Collector value is minimal unless in 'Uncirculated' condition or part of a proof set.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required; as a base metal coin, aggressive cleaning can damage its numismatic value (though value is nominal).
Similar Pieces
Older, larger 1 Dirham coins (pre-1995) which are significantly bigger in diameter.
Interesting Facts
The Dallah is such a potent symbol of Emirati culture that it is featured on the highest-circulation coin in the country.