This authentic Umayyad AR (Silver) Dirham, struck at the historic Darabjird Mint in 90 AH (708–709 AD) during the reign of Caliph al-Walid I, represents one of the finest examples of early Islamic coinage. Issued during the golden age of the Umayyad Caliphate, this silver dirham reflects the remarkable monetary reforms introduced by Caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan and continued under his successors.
Caliph al-Walid I (705–715 AD) presided over one of the most prosperous periods in Islamic history, marked by territorial expansion, economic growth, and monumental architectural achievements. Coins from his reign served not only as currency but also as symbols of the unity and authority of the Islamic state. The Darabjird Mint, located in present-day Fars Province, Iran, was an important provincial mint that produced high-quality silver dirhams circulated throughout the expanding empire.
Unlike earlier Islamic coins influenced by Byzantine and Sasanian designs, this dirham features the distinctive epigraphic style of the Umayyad coinage. The obverse and reverse are adorned with elegant Arabic inscriptions proclaiming the Islamic declaration of faith (Shahada), verses from the Qur’an, and mint and date information. The absence of human or animal imagery reflects the artistic and religious principles established during the Umayyad monetary reform.
Struck in fine silver, this coin demonstrates the precision of early Islamic minting techniques. Its historical significance extends beyond numismatics, offering a tangible connection to the formative years of Islamic civilization and the administrative sophistication of the Umayyad Empire. Coins from the Darabjird Mint dated 90 AH are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical importance, regional attribution, and enduring craftsmanship.
Whether added to a specialized Islamic coin collection, an ancient silver collection, or acquired as a historical investment, this Umayyad al-Walid I AR Dirham stands as a remarkable artifact from more than thirteen centuries ago. It is an exceptional collectible for numismatists, historians, museums, and enthusiasts of early Islamic history.
Umayyad Caliphate: al-Walid I AR Dirham, Surraq Mint, AH 93 (711–712 AD)
