House of Emirates® is thrilled to offer its elite clientele this remarkable bronze coin of the legendary Queen T’amar (1184–1213 AD), one of the greatest monarchs in Georgian history and among the most celebrated female rulers of the medieval world.
Struck during the height of the Georgian Golden Age, this impressive bronze coin measures 27 mm in diameter and weighs 6.16 grams, representing an extraordinary period of prosperity, military strength, and cultural brilliance. Displaying a distinctive countermark on the reverse and preserved in Fine condition, this historic piece carries an impeccable pedigree, having originated from the distinguished collection of Dr. Walter Berger (1919–1976), a respected scholar and collector of ancient and medieval coinage. Such provenance significantly enhances both its historical appeal and long-term collectability.
Script: Georgian (Asomtavruli)
Lettering: Ⴕ Ⴉ
ႧႰ – ႣႧ
Ⴣ Ⴉ
Translation:
QK (In the QoroniKon)
TR-DT (TamaR – DaviT)
YK (420-th)
Reverse
Four-line Arabic legend in dotted circle
Script: Arabic
Lettering: ملكة الملكات
جلال الدنيا والدين
تامار ابنة كيوري
ظهير المسيح
Translation:
Queen of queens
Glory of the world and faith
Tamar, daughter of Giorgi
Follower of the Messiah
Queen T’amar ascended the Georgian throne in 1184 AD and transformed her kingdom into the dominant power of the Caucasus and Near East. Revered as “King T’amar” rather than queen, a title emphasizing her sovereign authority, she led Georgia through an era of remarkable territorial expansion, economic prosperity, and artistic achievement.
Under her reign, the kingdom defeated the Seljuk Turks in several decisive campaigns, expanded its influence across Armenia and the Black Sea region, and became one of the most sophisticated Christian states of the medieval world. Her court attracted scholars, poets, architects, and theologians, while magnificent monasteries and churches flourished throughout her realm. Queen T’amar remains a national heroine in Georgia, admired not only for her military leadership and diplomatic skill but also for her justice, wisdom, and deep Christian faith, earning sainthood in the Georgian Orthodox Church.
The coin itself is an enduring witness to this extraordinary chapter of history. The inscriptions and distinctive iconography reflect the unique fusion of Georgian royal tradition with the artistic influences of neighbouring Byzantine and Islamic civilizations.
The carefully applied countermark illustrates the continued circulation and official validation of the coin during its lifetime, adding another fascinating layer to its historical journey. Its attractive dark bronze patina, visible circulation wear, and well-preserved legends speak to centuries of commerce and royal administration before eventually finding its place in one of the twentieth century’s respected numismatic collections. Today, this majestic coin offers collectors, historians, and discerning investors an exceptional opportunity to own an authentic artefact from the reign of one of history’s most remarkable female sovereigns—a museum-worthy testament to the power, prestige, and enduring legacy of medieval Georgia.
