22K Yellow Gold Turkish Çeyrek Altın (Quarter Gold) Coin Pendant
Coin Pendant / Religious & Ceremonial Jewelry · Yellow Gold. The alloy typically contains a small percentage of copper and silver, resulting in a deep, saturated sunny yellow hue characteristic of high-karat Middle Eastern gold.
Purity: 22 Karat (91.6% pure gold). This is the standard purity for Turkish investment coins, striking a balance between the rich color of pure gold and the durability needed for handling.
Type
Coin Pendant / Religious & Ceremonial Jewelry
Purity
22 Karat (91.6% pure gold). This is the standard purity for Turkish investment coins, striking a balance between the rich color of pure gold and the durability needed for handling.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy typically contains a small percentage of copper and silver, resulting in a deep, saturated sunny yellow hue characteristic of high-karat Middle Eastern gold.
Weight
Approximately 1.75 grams (0.056 troy oz). This is the standard weight for a Turkish Çeyrek (Quarter) coin. The soldered bail and safety pin add negligible weight (likely 0.2-0.5g total).
Description
This is a quintessential Turkish Çeyrek Altın, a quarter-gold coin widely used as a store of value and a traditional gift. The obverse features the Tughra, the calligraphic monogram of the Ottoman Sultans, surrounded by laurel leaves and stars. It is presented in a traditional gifting format, attached to a red ribbon with gold-thread trim by a safety pin, signaling it was intended as a celebratory gift for a wedding, birth, or circumcision ceremony.
Key Features
Ottoman Tughra monogram; 22K purity consistency; soldered bail for jewelry use; traditional red ribbon attachment; high-relief minted details.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich orange-yellow characteristic of 22K gold. The surface shows a proof-like or high-luster finish on the raised relief (Tughra and wreath) with micro-texturing in the fields. The bail has a high-polish finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the Ottoman-style Tughra (calligraphic monogram) and a surrounding wreath with stars. While the coin itself acts as the hallmark of the Turkish State Mint (Darphane), a small '916' or maker's mark may be present on the soldered bail loop.
Dimensions Estimate
Coin diameter is approximately 18mm. The safety pin is roughly 25-30mm in length. This is considered a 'petite' but significant ceremonial piece.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item relies entirely on the intricate metalwork of the numismatic strike and the symbolic value of the gold itself.
Clasp & Closure
Gold-toned safety pin closure, typically used for pinning the coin to clothing during social ceremonies. The coin is attached via a fixed circular bail soldered to the top of the coin.
Chain & Links
N/A. This is a pin-on pendant rather than a necklace. The bail is a solid, jump-ring style attachment that appears sturdy and well-soldered.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck coin with high precision. The bail is hand-soldered, showing a clean join. The safety pin is a functional, lower-karat or plated addition meant for temporary ceremonial attachment.
Authentication Indicators
The color is consistent with 22K gold; the strike detail of the Tughra is sharp and not 'mushy' (which would indicate a casting counterfeit); the weight-to-size ratio is distinctive for high-purity gold.
Origin & Maker
Origin: Turkey. Mint: Turkish State Mint (Turkish: T.C. Başbakanlık Hazine Müsteşarlığı Darphane ve Damga Matbaası Genel Müdürlüğü).
Era & Period
Contemporary production (Late 20th to 21st Century) following a Traditional Ottoman design language. These coins are minted annually for investment and gifting.
Age Estimate
Modern (post-2000). The crispness of the strike and the minimal wear on the bail suggests a relatively recent production, likely within the last 5-10 years.
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant in Turkish social life (Düğün/Wedding culture). It represents financial security provided by the community to a new couple or child. It is both a decoration and a liquid asset.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The coin shows sharp detail with no significant scratches or 'jewelry wear' (rubbing) often seen on older pieces. The ribbon is crisp, suggesting it has not been worn extensively.
Value Estimate
Resale value is primarily based on the gold spot price plus a small transactional premium (usually 3-7%). Retail replacement includes the cost of the bail and branding. Primarily valued for its melt content.
Care & Maintenance
22K gold is soft; avoid abrasive cleaners. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners if the coin is heavily handled, as the bail solder point is a point of stress. Store separately from harder 10K/14K jewelry to prevent scratching.
Similar Items
Full Altın (7.0g), Half Altın (3.5g), or the Resat Gold coin. These differ primarily in weight and diameter while maintaining the 22K purity.
Interesting Facts
In Turkey, gold coins like the çeyrek are an unofficial secondary currency. During wedding seasons, thousands of these are pinned to brides and grooms. The red ribbon is a symbol of luck and protection in Turkish culture.