22K Yellow Gold Ottoman Turkish Kurush Coin Pendant
Pendant (Coin Jewelry) · Yellow Gold. The coin exhibits a deep, rich buttery yellow hue characteristic of high-purity gold alloys containing silver and copper.
Purity: 22K (91.6% Fine Gold). Coinage of this era was traditionally struck in 0.917 fineness. The mounting bezel appears to be of a different, likely lower karat gold or gold-plated base metal based on color variance.
Type
Pendant (Coin Jewelry)
Purity
22K (91.6% Fine Gold). Coinage of this era was traditionally struck in 0.917 fineness. The mounting bezel appears to be of a different, likely lower karat gold or gold-plated base metal based on color variance.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The coin exhibits a deep, rich buttery yellow hue characteristic of high-purity gold alloys containing silver and copper.
Weight
Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 grams total. The coin itself (likely a 100 Kurush/Lira) typically weighs ~7.21 grams; the bezel and bail add estimated mass.
Description
This striking gold pendant features an authentic Ottoman Turkish Kurush gold coin set in a minimalist four-prong yellow gold bezel. The obverse displays intricate Arabic calligraphy surrounded by a laurel wreath and stars, representing the height of late Ottoman numismatic art. This piece blends historical sovereign currency with wearable luxury, serving as both a hedge against inflation and a cultural statement piece.
Key Features
Authentic AH 1327 date (Accession year of Mehmed V), 'Kostantiniye' mint mark, and a non-destructive four-tab bezel setting that preserves the coin's edge.
Color & Finish
The coin features a rich yellow brilliance with a lustrous, frosted finish in the recessed areas (die luster) and high-polish relief. Evidence of 'jewelry-grade' polishing is present on the high points.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible modern hallmarks on the coin face. The coin displays Arabic calligraphy including the date '1327' (Hijri) and the mint mark 'Kostantiniye' (Istanbul).
Dimensions Estimate
Coin diameter approx. 22mm. Total pendant drop approx. 32mm including bail. Standard medium pendant sizing.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item relies on the aesthetic appeal of the numismatic engraving and the gold's natural luster.
Clasp & Closure
A standard rigid jump ring and tapered bail. The piece is currently suspended on a stainless steel or silver Figaro chain with a lobster clasp (secondary item).
Chain & Links
The pendant is displayed on a Figaro link chain (3 short links followed by 1 long link). The chain appears to be steel or silver-tone, contrasting with the gold pendant.
Craftsmanship Details
The coin shows a sharp strike from the Imperial Ottoman Mint. The bezel is a mass-produced casting, designed for security rather than high-artistry, featuring standard fold-over tabs.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Arabic script styling, weight-to-diameter ratio consistent with Ottoman standards, and the specific '1327' date stamp. The deep yellow color is consistent with 22K Turkish gold.
Origin & Maker
Coin minted in Istanbul, Turkey (Kostantiniye). The jewelry mounting/bezel is likely of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern origin.
Era & Period
The coin is from the Ottoman Empire, Sultan Mehmed V era (reign 1909-1918). The jewelry mounting is a late 20th-century contemporary modification.
Age Estimate
Coin: Dated AH 1327 (1909 AD). Setting: Likely manufactured between 1980-2010.
Cultural Significance
Represents the final stages of the Ottoman Empire's monetary system. These coins are highly prized in Turkey and the Levant as symbols of wealth, heritage, and family security.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Jewelry Grade). The coin shows minor surface hairsplitting consistent with being worn as jewelry. The bezel tabs are secure but show slight wear. Chain is non-matching.
Value Estimate
$550.00 - $700.00. Value is primarily driven by current gold spot price (melt value) plus a 15-25% numismatic/jewelry premium for the coin's condition and the gold bezel.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the coin is loose in the bezel. Gold of this purity is soft; avoid contact with harder metals like the steel chain shown.
Similar Items
Gold British Sovereigns, French 20 Francs (Roosters), or modern 22K Krugerrand pendants. These differ in script, origin, and specific gold fineness (though most are 22K).
Interesting Facts
Ottoman gold coins were once the standard currency across three continents. In many Mediterranean cultures, giving gold coins like this at weddings remains a vital tradition.