The weekly iAuctions at Stack’s Bowers Galleries are a great source for collectible coins within a reasonable budget. Every month (closing on the first Sunday of the month) these iAuctions contain world and/or ancient coins, with the inclusion of some notable highlights such as this piece, a Moroccan Mitqal (10 Dirhams) with an interesting historical footnote. Minted in 1774, the year of the first Continental Congress, a historical link was forged just three years later when in the midst of the American Revolution, Morocco became the first country to formally recognize the United States as an independent nation.
This sharply struck example features an obverse which has a three line Arabic inscription within a sun-like pattern. The reverse shows a two line Arabic inscription above the date in numerals, Anno Hegira 1188 (1774). It is interesting that this piece is struck on a slightly square-shaped planchet yet portions of the edge are certainly rounded. Attractive slate-grey toning enhances the visual appeal of this historically intriguing piece. Many other treasures are just waiting to be discovered in this week’s iAuction, be sure to check it out before it closes!
Look for this and other numismatic pieces in our upcoming iAuctions. These are held every Monday – Sunday, with world numismatic items being included in the sales that end on the first Sunday of every month. Preview this impressive coin along with the rest of our iAuction items at the Browse Auctions link at StacksBowers.com. If you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency to our iAuctions (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one of our consignment directors by calling 800.458.4646.
