Egyptian Gold 50 Piastres Coin, King Farouk I
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (High copper-alloy content typical of Middle Eastern 21K/22K gold, giving it a rich, warm tone).
Purity: 21.6K (87.5% Gold Fineness). This is the traditional standard for Egyptian gold coinage of this era.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (87.5% Gold Fineness). This is the traditional standard for Egyptian gold coinage of this era.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-alloy content typical of Middle Eastern 21K/22K gold, giving it a rich, warm tone).
Weight
4.25 grams (0.1366 troy oz). This is the standard weight for the 50 Piastres denomination.
Description
A classic example of Egyptian numismatic history, this gold 50 Piastres coin features the left-facing portrait of King Farouk I. Known as a 'Playboy King,' Farouk's coinage represents the final era of the Egyptian Monarchy before the Revolution of 1952. The coin is valued both for its gold content and its historical significance in the Middle Eastern coin market.
Key Features
Portrait of King Farouk I in military uniform; Arabic script bordering the profile; beaded outer rim.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow with significant surface oxidation and greyish patina. This example appears to have a circulated, matte finish with considerable environmental toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Arabic calligraphy denoting the name of King Farouk I and the title 'King of Egypt'. The reverse (not pictured) would contain the denomination and AH/AD dates.
Dimensions Estimate
21mm in diameter, approximately 1.2mm thick.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck bullion/currency coin.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the reeded edge acts as a security feature against shaving/clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Solid circular planchet).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using steel dies. The portrait relief is well-proportioned, typical of mid-20th-century sovereign minting technology.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive profile of Farouk I; correct Arabic typography; characteristic 21.6K color profile (though obscured by dirt/toning). Red flag: The greyish appearance may suggest a base-metal counterfeit or heavy environmental damage; XRF testing is highly recommended.
Origin & Maker
Egypt, minted at the Cairo Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Kingdom of Egypt); specifically the reign of Farouk I (1936-1952).
Age Estimate
Produced between 1938 and 1950 (AH 1357 - AH 1369).
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of the Egyptian Monarchy and is often used in traditional Middle Eastern jewelry (pendants) or as a store of family wealth.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). The coin shows significant surface wear, loss of original mint luster, and heavy darkening/toning. The high points of the hair and temple are flattened.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value plus a 5-10% numismatic premium. Based on ~3.72g of fine gold content, its value fluctuates with the spot price of gold.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free archival flip or capsule. Use only mild soapy water if absolutely necessary.
Similar Items
Egyptian 20 Piastres (smaller), Egyptian 100 Piastres (larger), or the British Sovereign (similar weight/purity).
Interesting Facts
King Farouk was one of the world's most prolific collectors, once owning the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, the most expensive gold coin in history.