Libyan 100 Dirham Bimetallic Circulation Coin (Gold-Colored Outer Ring)
Coin (Circulating Currency) · Yellow-toned Base Metal Alloy. The outer ring is composed of Nordic gold, a non-noble alloy typically used in coinage for its gold-like aesthetic and resistance to tarnishing.
Purity: 0% (Common Metal Alloy). This item consists of a Nordic Gold (Copper-Aluminum-Zinc-Tin) outer ring and a Cupro-nickel center. It contains no actual gold content despite its golden appearance.
Type
Coin (Circulating Currency)
Purity
0% (Common Metal Alloy). This item consists of a Nordic Gold (Copper-Aluminum-Zinc-Tin) outer ring and a Cupro-nickel center. It contains no actual gold content despite its golden appearance.
Gold Type
Yellow-toned Base Metal Alloy. The outer ring is composed of Nordic gold, a non-noble alloy typically used in coinage for its gold-like aesthetic and resistance to tarnishing.
Weight
Approx. 5.5 grams per coin. Primarily composed of copper and nickel alloys which are significantly lighter than solid gold of this volume.
Description
This is a pair of bimetallic 100 Dirham coins from Libya. They feature a striking two-tone design commonly mistaken for gold and silver. The center core is a nickel-colored alloy featuring the denomination in Arabic calligraphy, while the outer ring is a yellow-gold-toned alloy decorated with an interlocking geometric chain pattern. They are circulation currency rather than bullion.
Key Features
Bimetallic construction, Arabic '100' numeral, geometric border pattern, 'Dirham/Fils' script, and a lack of any precious metal purity stamps.
Color & Finish
Two-tone appearance: The outer ring has a brassy, muted yellow gold-colored hue; the center is a silvery-white nickel-colored disc. The surface shows a circulated matte finish with minor oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal hallmarks (no 10K, 14K, or .999). It features Arabic numerals '100' and 'فلس' (Fils/Dirham denomination) in the center, and a geometric border on the outer ring.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 24.5mm; Thickness of approximately 1.7mm. Comparable to a standard circulation bimetallic coin (similar to a Euro 1 coin).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a functional bimetallic specimen consisting of two separate metal discs pressed together during striking.
Clasp & Closure
None. The coin features a reeded (milled) edge to prevent shaving and provide tactile identification.
Chain & Links
N/A. The edge is likely reeded or smooth; the physical structure is the standard flat disc of a government-issued coin.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure industrial striking. The alignment between the inner core and outer ring is precise, indicating a professional government minting process.
Authentication Indicators
Visual confirmation of Libyan currency design; absence of karat stamps; edge reeding consistent with base-metal coinage; visible 'seam' between the two metal types.
Origin & Maker
Libya (Central Bank of Libya). Likely minted at an international mint such as the British Royal Mint or a German sovereign facility under contract.
Era & Period
Late 20th to Early 21st Century (Modern Libyan Jamahiriya/Post-Jamahiriya Era). Design elements reflect the style adopted under the Gadaffi regime.
Age Estimate
Dated between 1979 and 2009 based on the '100' denomination and design; likely the 2001 or 2004 series given the bimetallic composition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern monetary history of Libya and the transition from single-metal coinage to more secure bimetallic designs aimed at preventing counterfeiting.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Good to Fine). Visible surface scratches, minor dings on the rims, and typical patina/light oxidation on the 'Nordic Gold' outer ring.
Value Estimate
Nominal value (approx. $0.02 - $0.50 USD). The value is based on exchange rate or numismatic curiosity. The melt value of the base metals (copper/nickel) is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth if desired; avoid harsh chemicals or metal cleaners which can strip the protective oxide layer from the copper-based ring. Store in a dry environment to prevent verdigris.
Similar Items
South African 5 Rand bimetallic coin, 1 Euro coin, 2 Euro coin, or British 2 Pound coin. All use bimetallic technology to distinguish high-value denominations from lower ones.
Interesting Facts
Despite the name, 'Nordic Gold' contains no actual gold at all. It was developed to create a durable, non-allergenic, and gold-colored metal for coinage, most famously for the 10, 20, and 50 cent Euro coins.