Bahrain 21K 8 Gram Gold Bullion Coin (Token Format), Dated 2018/1439
Gold Bullion Coin / Sovereign-Style Token · Yellow Gold. The alloy typically contains silver and a small amount of copper to achieve the characteristic rich, deep yellow hue favored in the Gulf region.
Purity: 21 Karat (87.5% gold content); often referred to as '875' fineness. This is a common standard in Middle Eastern jewelry markets.
Type
Gold Bullion Coin / Sovereign-Style Token
Purity
21 Karat (87.5% gold content); often referred to as '875' fineness. This is a common standard in Middle Eastern jewelry markets.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy typically contains silver and a small amount of copper to achieve the characteristic rich, deep yellow hue favored in the Gulf region.
Weight
Estimated at 8.0 grams (typical for Middle Eastern 'sovereign' sized gold tokens).
Description
A beautiful pair of Bahraini gold investment tokens featuring the iconic Date Palm—a symbol of life and prosperity in the desert. These pieces bridge the gap between bullion and jewelry, struck in the high-purity 21K gold standard preferred across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. The design features a central palm tree surrounded by the state's name in elegant bilingual typography.
Key Features
Bilingual text; dual-dating system (Islamic and Western); traditional palm tree motif; specific 21K alloy color.
Color & Finish
High-carat deep yellow; satin-finish fields with raised polished elements. Shows minor surface handling marks and a natural warm luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN' in English and Arabic. Includes Hijri date '1439' and Gregorian date '2018'. No visible assay hallmark on the face, typical for minted gold tokens intended for jewelry or investment sets.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 22mm in diameter, similar in size to a British Sovereign or a US Nickel.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is solid gold with struck bas-relief imagery.
Clasp & Closure
None (as it is a coin/token). The edge appears smooth or lightly reeded.
Chain & Links
N/A; however, these are frequently mounted in 21K gold 'coin frames' to be worn as pendants.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with die-stamping. The details are crisp, though the production focus is on weight and purity rather than numismatic proof-finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The color is consistent with 21K alloy; the strike shows sharp definition in the palm fronds and typography. Authentic Bahraini gold often lacks 'western' hallmarks but carries specific weight consistency.
Origin & Maker
Bahrain. These are often produced by local private mints or commissioned by major jewelers in Manama's Gold Souq for investment and gifting.
Era & Period
Contemporary (21st Century). Produced in 2018.
Age Estimate
Dated 2018; approximately 6 years old.
Cultural Significance
The Date Palm is the national tree of Bahrain and represents heritage. Such coins are often given as significant wedding or graduation gifts in Bahraini culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (XF/AU). Light surface micro-scratches consistent with being kept loose in a pouch; no major dings or edge nicks.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily by weight (Melt Value). Current market value is [Weight x 0.875 x Spot Price] + a 5-10% minting premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if micro-cracks appear. Store separately in silk pouches to prevent the soft 21K surface from scratching.
Similar Items
British Gold Sovereign (22K), Saudi Arabian Gold Guinea (21.6K), or UAE Gold 'Vision' Tokens.
Interesting Facts
In Bahrain, gold is traditionally bought as 'Mahar' (dowry) or for 'Ghabga' gifts. High-purity gold like this is often sold with very low premiums over the spot price compared to Western luxury brands.