The Hispano-Arabic Coins
Much has been said about these coins lately, especially after the media impact of the auction of the Tonegawa collection. Hispano-Arabic coins are beautiful, different, and enigmatic… they were not only economic instruments but also symbols of power and culture of an unparalleled era. Some coins showed Christian and Jewish influences, indicating the coexistence of different religious communities in Al-Andalus.
Today on NCV, we will briefly introduce the evolution of these ancient coins, their distinctive characteristics, and their impact on the economy and society of the time.
Who knows? This article may whet your appetite for these unique historical pieces.on
Historical Context
Al-Andalus, the territory of the Iberian Peninsula under Muslim rule from the 8th to the 15th century, was a melting pot of cultures and a center of economic and cultural exchange. After the fragmentation of the Caliphate of Cordoba in the early 11th century, the Taifa kingdoms emerged, small independent states that continued the tradition of minting coins.
Evolution of Numismatics in Al-Andalus
Coin minting in Al-Andalus began with the arrival of the Umayyads in the 8th century. The first coins, known as dinars and dirhams, followed Islamic models with Arabic inscriptions and no human depictions, keeping with the Islamic prohibition of iconography. Over time, coins evolved, reflecting the influence of local cultures and political changes.
During the Caliphate of Cordoba, coins became a symbol of caliphal authority. It is important to note that the Caliphate of Cordoba, a Muslim state that existed in the Iberian Peninsula from 912 to 1031, was founded by Abd al-Rahman III, who proclaimed himself caliph. Umayyad caliphs, such as Abd al-Rahman III, issued coins with inscriptions proclaiming their power and legitimacy; they were high-quality pieces and were widely distributed, facilitating trade and the economic cohesion of the caliphate.
Coins of the Taifas
With the fragmentation of the Caliphate of Cordoba, the Taifa kingdoms began to issue their own coins. Each Taifa had its distinctive style and characteristics. For example, the coins of the Taifa of Seville, under the rule of the Abadi dynasty, were known for their high quality and beauty. Those coins often bore inscriptions extolling local rulers.
The Taifa coins often included poetic and religious inscriptions, which gave them additional cultural value.
The coins of Al-Andalus and the taifas were minted mainly in three metals:
Gold: The dinar was the gold coin inspired by the coins of the Byzantine emperor Heraclius. These pieces were of high quality and used for essential transactions and as a symbol of power and wealth.
Silver: The dirham was the silver coin, worth one-tenth of a dinar. Silver coins were shared and used daily, although it is true that during the Taifas, the quality of silver coins decreased, and sometimes they were mixed with other metals like copper.
Copper: The felus, more abundant and of daily use, was the copper coin, used for minor transactions.
During the taifa period, there was a remarkable variation in the quality and composition of coins due to political and economic fragmentation. While some taifas maintained high standards in coinage, others saw the purity of the metals used to decrease.
Economic and Social Impact
It goes without saying that coins played a crucial role in the economy of Al-Andalus and the taifas. They facilitated trade within the Iberian Peninsula and other regions of the Islamic world and Europe. The circulation of high-quality coins helped maintain economic stability and fostered the development of markets and cities.
Dirhams and felus, in addition to their role in everyday commercial transactions and tax payments, also served as a medium for disseminating political and religious messages. The inscriptions on those coins often proclaimed the Islamic faith and the authority of the ruler, thereby reinforcing his legitimacy and power.
Legacy and Archaeological Discoveries
The coins of Al-Andalus and the Taifas are an invaluable source for historians and archaeologists. Through the study of these coins, information about the time’s economy, politics, and culture can be obtained. Archaeological finds of coins at sites such as Medina Azahara and other sites have provided a detailed insight into life in Al-Andalus.
Moreover, coins have played a pivotal role in unraveling the intricate relationships between the diverse Taifa kingdoms and their engagement with the global community. The discovery of coins in regions as distant as northern Europe and North Africa serves as a testament to the extensive trade networks of Al-Andalus, sparking curiosity and further exploration.
As you can see in this publication, several coins from this period were certified by NCV. If you are interested in certifying both your coins and banknotes, adding an extra attraction for collecting, you can find out all about it on our website. See you soon!
