Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an authentic Persian gold coin, likely a 1/2 Toman denomination, minted during the late Qajar dynasty. It features the iconic Lion and Sun (Shir-o-Khorshid) motif on the obverse, a symbol of Persian identity dating back to antiquity, holding a sword within a laurel wreath. The reverse displays the denomination and Islamic calendar date surrounded by a decorative floral border.
Story
Struck during a period of intense political transition in Persia, this coin carries the ancient Lion and Sun symbol. It survived the fall of the Qajar dynasty in 1925, serving as a portable piece of wealth through decades of geopolitical shifts.
Maker / Origin
Minted under the authority of the Qajar Shahs (most likely Ahmad Shah Qajar, the last ruling member of the dynasty), these coins were produced at the central mint in Tehran. The Qajar rulers struggled to modernize Persia's economy, making these gold issues scarce survivors of a turbulent monetary system.
Condition & Value
The coin shows moderate circulation wear, with softening to the high points of the lion design and the reverse calligraphy. There are minor surface scratches and edge nicks consistent with age, but no major damage or signs of being mounted as jewelry. This honest wear places it in a standard collectible grade.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.