Egypt 10 Qirsh Silver Coin

The Egypt 10 Qirsh Silver Coin, issued from 1884 to 1907, is a significant piece of Egypt's numismatic history under the rule of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. These coins were minted for regular circulation and hold historical and collectible value for both numismatists and historians.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features the toughra of Sultan Abdul Hamid II, an intricate calligraphic emblem representing the sultan's name and title.
• Reverse (back): Displays the denomination in Arabic within a wreath, with the Hijri date below and the Ottoman Turkish inscription for 'Misr' (Egypt) above.
• Weight: Approximately 12.5 grams
• Silver Content: Composed of 0.833 fine silver

Mint Marks and Varieties

The Egypt 10 Qirsh coins were minted in multiple locations, each identified by distinct mint marks. The location of the mint mark can be found on the reverse of the coin:

• Constantinople (no mint mark): The primary mint for these coins, producing the majority of the issues.
• Heaton ('H'): A private mint in Birmingham, England, which produced coins for Egypt in specific years.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Some minting years saw larger productions, making certain dates more common in the market. For example, coins from the mid-1890s often appear more frequently and are typically more accessible for collectors.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Coins with the Heaton ('H') mint mark are generally rarer and might command higher premiums due to their limited production. Additionally, specific years such as 1885 and 1900 can be less common, adding to their collectible appeal.

Various Grades and Values

The value of the Egypt 10 Qirsh coins varies based on their condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins:

• Good (G): $20-30
• Fine (F): $30-50
• Extremely Fine (XF): $50-80
• About Uncirculated (AU): $80-120
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $120-200

Coins with rare mint marks, like the Heaton issues, and key dates can command significantly higher prices, especially in higher grades.

The Egypt 10 Qirsh Silver Coin, with its rich historical significance and intricate design, is a prized addition for collectors interested in Ottoman-era coins. While some dates and mint marks provide an affordable entry point into collecting, rare varieties and well-preserved examples offer substantial appeal and potential value appreciation.

10 Qirsh Silver Coin Auctions