Overview
A bronze or brass numismatic piece featuring the iconic 'Shir-o-Khorshid' (Lion and Sun) emblem of Persia. This motif, showing a lion holding a sword before a rising sun, served as the central state symbol of Iran for centuries.
Preliminary identification
Qajar Dynasty Lion and Sun Bronze Token or Coin, c. 1880-1920
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
The Lion and Sun is one of the oldest symbols in the world, representing the alignment of the stars and the power of the Shah. This specific design flourished under the Qajar dynasty, a period of immense cultural transition.
Maker / Origin
While likely produced in a regional Persian mint, these pieces were often commissioned to celebrate the reign of the Qajar monarchs, who sought to modernize Persia while maintaining deep ties to ancient Zoroastrian and Islamic traditions.
Condition & Value
The piece shows significant circulation wear and surface oxidation, which has softened the details of the lion and the sun's rays. This 'honest wear' is typical for bronze pieces of this age. Condition reduces value by about 50% compared to a crisp strike.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.