Oman 50 Baisa Coin, AH 1406 (1986)
Coin/Bullion · Central Bank of Oman
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage, FAO Commemorative Issue
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Central Bank of Oman
Material
Copper-Nickel (This specific circulation issue does not contain silver; silver versions were minted for proof sets only)
Dimensions
24mm diameter; 5.6 grams (Standard for this denomination)
Description
A standard circulation 50 Baisa coin from the Sultanate of Oman. The obverse features the Omani national coat of arms—a ceremonial Khanjar in its scabbard over two crossed swords. The reverse displays the denomination in Arabic calligraphy. This specific series was part of a Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) commemorative effort aimed at 'Food for All'.
Key Features
Central '50' in Arabic; Khanjar emblem; dual dates; FAO commemorative theme.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel (This specific circulation issue does not contain silver; silver versions were minted for proof sets only)
Finish & Decoration
Struck with a matte/circulated finish. Features the Omani National Emblem (Khanjar dagger over crossed swords) flanked by the dates and the denomination in Arabic numerals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks as it is base metal. Features Arabic script indicating 'Baisa' and '50', with the Hijri date '1406' at the bottom.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck/milled coinage.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for tactile identification and to prevent clipping; used as legal tender in the Sultanate of Oman.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Circular coin form.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard high-volume minting; clean strikes with sharp definition on the national emblem.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth, authentic Arabic calligraphy styles, and accurate weight/diameter for the 1986 copper-nickel issue.
Origin & Manufacturing
Oman (though often struck at the Royal Mint in the UK for the Omani government).
Era & Period
Late 20th Century Omani Sultanate; reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said.
Age Estimate
Dated AH 1406, which corresponds to 1986 AD.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic modernization of Oman under Sultan Qaboos and the country's participation in international UN/FAO initiatives.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible surface scratches, light tarnish/oxidation, and minor edge wear. Grade: Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
$0.50 - $2.00 USD (As a common circulation coin in base metal).
Care & Maintenance
For base metal coins, avoid acidic cleaners. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Oman 25 Baisa or 100 Baisa of the same era; silver proof versions of this coin exist but are typically found in velvet-lined cases.
Interesting Facts
The 50 Baisa is 1/20th of an Omani Rial. The Khanjar emblem on the coin is the same symbol found on the Omani national flag.