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House of Emirates® is pleased to offer this majestic Umayyad silver dirham of Caliph Al-Walid I ( 86–96 AH / 705–715 AD), an exceptional piece of early Islamic coinage struck at the Wasit mint in AH 96 (714–715 AD).
Measuring approximately 28 mm and weighing 2.80 g, this historic silver dirham represents an important period in the development of Islamic monetary history and is a highly desirable acquisition for serious collectors and investors in rare Islamic coins, Umayyad coins and historic silver coinage.
Issued during the reign of Al-Walid I, the sixth Umayyad caliph, this dirham belongs to the celebrated series of early Islamic silver dirhams that replaced earlier Byzantine and Sasanian-inspired monetary designs with a distinctive Islamic epigraphic format. Rather than depicting a ruler or portrait, the coin proudly carries carefully arranged Arabic inscriptions, reflecting the religious and political identity of the expanding Umayyad Caliphate.
Its elegant calligraphy and disciplined geometric arrangement make the coin an outstanding example of early Islamic numismatic art.
The Wasit mint is particularly significant in Umayyad numismatics. Located in Iraq, Wasit became one of the most important administrative and monetary centres of the early Islamic world. Silver dirhams struck there circulated widely throughout the Umayyad territories and beyond, making Wasit issues highly important for understanding the economic, political and commercial history of the Islamic Caliphate.
Dated 96 AH / 715 AD, this coin was struck at the very end of Al-Walid I’s reign, shortly before his death in 715 AD. The date therefore places the dirham within a fascinating transitional moment in Umayyad history. For collectors of Caliph Al-Walid I coins, Umayyad silver dirhams, and early Islamic coins, a dated example from the final year of his reign offers considerable historical appeal.
This specimen is graded Near Extremely Fine (Near EF), presenting attractive detail and strong preservation for an early medieval silver coin. The clear inscriptions, substantial flan and well-preserved surfaces allow the distinctive character of this Umayyad dirham to be appreciated.
For collectors seeking rare ancient silver coins, Islamic silver coins, Umayyad dirhams, early Islamic coinage and historic coins as luxury investment assets, this Al-Walid I dirham offers a compelling combination of rarity, historical significance, artistry and tangible heritage. Coins from the Umayyad Caliphate provide a direct connection to one of the most influential dynasties of the early Islamic world and remain highly sought after by specialist numismatists and discerning collectors.
Reference: Album 128.
Ruler: Al-Walid I, Umayyad Caliphate
Date: AH 96 / AD 714–715
Mint: Wasit
Denomination: Silver Dirham
Diameter: 28 mm
Weight: 2.80 g
Condition: Near EF
Metal: Silver
A distinguished example of Umayyad numismatic history, this rare silver dirham is an exceptional addition to a sophisticated collection of ancient and historic coins.
