Abbasid Caliphate, temp. Al-Rashid, AR Hemidrachm, Tabaristan mint, PYE 137 = AH 172 = AD 788 - RR

Abbasid Caliphate. temp. Al-Rashid, AH 170-193 / AD 786-809, Tabaristan mint, AR Hemidrachm (silver, 1.69g, 23mm), PYE 137 = AH 172 = AD 788 - Lustrous

Arabic Title :إسلامية، الخلافة العباسية، فترة الراشد، هميدراخم فضة،ضرب في طبرستان، ١٧٢ هـ

Era/Ruler: Time Al-Rashid, Citing Governor Sulayman ibn Musa

Mint/Date : Tabaraistan, PYE 137 = AH 172 = AD 788

Denom : AR Hemidrachm

Wt/Dia : 1.69 g / 23 mm

Obv: Crowned and draped word 'bakh' ('good' in Kufic) within a diamond; behind head, AFZUT GDH ('may his kingship increase' in Pahlawi); before the head, 'Sulayman' in Kufic

Rev: Sasanian fire altar set on three steps, flanked by two attendants standing facing; to left, date; to right, mint TPURSTAN ('Tabaristan' in Pahlawi)

Ref: Album 65. SICA I, 435

Rarity/Choice: Scarce / EF

Note: This Hemidrachm signifies the flourishing economy and stability of the Abbasid era. Tabaristan, renowned for its strategic location and productive agriculture, served as a significant minting center during this period. This coin provides a tangible connection to the prosperity and cultural richness of the Abbasid Caliphate under the enlightened rule of Al-Rashid.