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The Iraq 500 Fils coin from 1971, cataloged as KM#132, commemorates the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Iraqi Army. This coin, in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, is a significant piece of Iraq’s numismatic history, reflecting the country’s military heritage and the pivotal role of its armed forces in national development.
The history of the 500 Fils coin begins in the early 1970s when Iraq decided to commemorate the golden jubilee of its army, which was established in 1921. The establishment of the Iraqi Army marked a crucial step in the country’s efforts to assert its sovereignty and build a modern state following the end of British mandate and the subsequent establishment of the Kingdom of Iraq. The 50th anniversary was celebrated with various national events, and the issuance of this coin was a significant part of those celebrations.
The obverse of the 500 Fils coin features a portrait of then-President Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, who was in power from 1968 to 1979. Al-Bakr was a key figure in the Ba'ath Party, which played a significant role in Iraq's political landscape during the latter half of the 20th century. His portrait on the coin symbolizes the government's authority and its connection to the military. Surrounding the portrait is an inscription in Arabic that translates to "Republic of Iraq," along with the date in both Gregorian and Hijri calendars, 1971 and 1391 respectively, marking the coin's issue year.
The reverse of the coin is richly symbolic, showcasing the emblem of the Iraqi Army. The emblem features a shield with crossed swords, a symbol of strength and protection, surmounted by a wreath and a five-pointed star, which symbolizes the army’s commitment to the country. The inscription in Arabic around the emblem translates to "50th Anniversary of the Iraqi Army." This side of the coin celebrates the army's role in maintaining the nation's sovereignty and security over five decades. The denomination "500 Fils" is prominently displayed below the emblem, making it clear that this is a half-dinar coin.
The 1971 500 Fils coin was minted in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq. Although the exact mintage numbers are not readily available, coins from this period were typically produced in relatively high quantities to ensure broad distribution among the public. The condition of this particular coin, described as Brilliant Uncirculated (BU), indicates that it has not been circulated and remains in mint condition, retaining its original luster and sharpness of design.
The Iraqi Army, established on January 6, 1921, has played a critical role in the country's history. Initially formed under British supervision following the end of the Ottoman Empire, the army quickly became a cornerstone of Iraq’s national identity and sovereignty. Over the decades, the Iraqi Army has been involved in various conflicts and has played a pivotal role in both domestic and regional politics. The coin’s issuance in 1971 was a reflection of the army's continued importance in the nation's governance and its efforts to maintain stability during a period of significant political changes.
One interesting fact about Iraq is its rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, often referred to as the cradle of civilization. This region saw the rise of the earliest human civilizations, including the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Iraq's history is filled with significant contributions to humanity, including the invention of writing, the development of early legal systems, and advances in science, mathematics, and literature. The legacy of these ancient civilizations continues to influence Iraq’s cultural and national identity.
The 500 Fils coin from 1971 not only commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Iraqi Army but also serves as a reminder of the nation's long and complex history. Its design elements are deeply symbolic, reflecting the pride and strength of the Iraqi armed forces. The coin is a valuable collector's item, especially in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, as it preserves a moment in time when Iraq was celebrating a milestone in its modern military history. For collectors and historians alike, this coin is a tangible link to Iraq's past and its journey through the 20th century.