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The Iraq 1 Fils coin from 1938, cataloged as KM#102, is an intriguing piece of Iraq's numismatic history, representing the era of the Kingdom of Iraq under the Hashemite monarchy. This coin, in Extremely Fine (XF) condition, reflects the economic and political climate of Iraq in the late 1930s, a time when the country was striving to modernize and establish its identity in the post-Ottoman period.
The history of the 1 Fils coin dates back to the era of King Ghazi I, who reigned from 1933 until his untimely death in 1939. King Ghazi was a symbol of Iraqi nationalism and modernization, and his reign was marked by efforts to reduce British influence and promote a sense of national unity. The introduction of the 1 Fils coin in 1938 was part of a broader initiative to standardize the currency and promote economic stability in the kingdom.
The obverse of the 1 Fils coin features a portrait of King Ghazi I, facing left. The image of the young king is accompanied by an inscription in Arabic that reads "Ghazi I" and "King of Iraq." The portrait is detailed and reflects the artistic style of the period, aiming to portray the king as a dignified and progressive leader. The use of Arabic script emphasizes the cultural heritage of Iraq and the importance of the Arabic language as a unifying factor in the kingdom.
The reverse of the coin displays the denomination "1 Fils" prominently in the center, surrounded by a wreath of wheat ears. This design element symbolizes prosperity and agricultural abundance, which were crucial aspects of Iraq's economy at the time. Below the denomination, the year of minting, 1938, is indicated in both Arabic and Gregorian calendars, with the corresponding Hijri year of 1357. This dual dating system highlights Iraq's Islamic heritage and its integration with the modern world.
The 1938 1 Fils coin was minted in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq. Although specific mintage figures are not readily available, coins from this period were typically produced in sufficient quantities to meet the needs of the growing population. The condition of this particular coin, described as Extremely Fine (XF), indicates that it has been well-preserved with only minor signs of wear, retaining much of its original detail and sharpness.
The issuance of the 1 Fils coin in 1938 was part of a broader effort to stabilize and modernize Iraq's economy. During this period, Iraq was undergoing significant changes as it sought to establish itself as a sovereign nation following centuries of Ottoman rule and a subsequent period of British mandate. The introduction of a standardized currency was essential for facilitating trade, encouraging investment, and promoting economic development.
One interesting fact about Iraq is its ancient heritage, which dates back to the earliest civilizations in Mesopotamia. The region is often referred to as the cradle of civilization due to its historical significance in the development of writing, agriculture, and urbanization. The ancient cities of Babylon, Ur, and Nineveh are located in present-day Iraq, and the country's rich archaeological heritage continues to be a source of national pride and international interest.
In the context of Iraq's broader historical narrative, the 1 Fils coin from 1938 serves as a tangible link to a transformative period in the country's history. The coin not only reflects the reign of King Ghazi I but also symbolizes the efforts of the Iraqi government to modernize and unify the nation. The design elements of the coin, including the portrait of the king and the agricultural motifs, highlight the themes of leadership, prosperity, and cultural heritage.
The 1 Fils coin is a valuable collector's item, especially in Extremely Fine condition, as it offers a glimpse into the economic and political landscape of Iraq in the late 1930s. For numismatists and historians alike, this coin represents an important chapter in Iraq's journey towards sovereignty and modernization. The coin's preservation and historical significance make it a cherished addition to any collection, providing insights into the legacy of the Hashemite monarchy and the cultural richness of Iraq.