22K Turkish Gold 100 Kurush Monnaie de Luxe Coin Pendant
Pendant (Coin Jewelry) · Yellow Gold. The rich, deep buttery hue is characteristic of high-karat alloys containing a small amount of copper and silver.
Purity: 22K (91.67% pure gold). This is the standard purity for Turkish Kurush and Lira coinage. The bail may be 14K or 18K, common in jewelry conversions.
Type
Pendant (Coin Jewelry)
Purity
22K (91.67% pure gold). This is the standard purity for Turkish Kurush and Lira coinage. The bail may be 14K or 18K, common in jewelry conversions.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The rich, deep buttery hue is characteristic of high-karat alloys containing a small amount of copper and silver.
Weight
Estimated total weight 7.8 - 8.5 grams. The coin itself (100 Kurush) traditionally weighs 7.21 grams, with the bail and solder adding extra mass.
Description
A stunning Turkish cultural staple, this pendant features a 22-karat gold 100 Kurush 'Monnaie de Luxe' striking. It displays the Tughra of the Sultan surrounded by a laurel wreath and seven stars, representing Ottoman heritage. Such pieces are widely used across the Middle East as both portable wealth and high-fashion jewelry.
Key Features
The central Tughra calligraphy, the laurel wreath frame, and the seven-point star arc. The 'De Luxe' striking is thinner and larger in diameter than standard bullion coins.
Color & Finish
Deep saturation yellow. The obverse features a satin-frosted background with high-relief polished calligraphy. Visible matte patina in the crevices of the wreath.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the 'Tughra' (calligraphic signature) and stars. Jewelry-specific hallmarks (e.g., '585' or '750') are likely stamped on the reverse of the bail or the ring.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 22mm for the coin; total pendant length including bail is roughly 30mm. Standard 'Quarter-size' medallion.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item relies on intricate die-struck numismatic relief for aesthetic value.
Clasp & Closure
V-shaped tapered bail attached via a jump ring. The jump ring appears soldered to the coin edge, creating a fixed pendant orientation.
Chain & Links
N/A. Single pendant piece. The edge of the coin is obscured by the jewelry setting but Kurush coins usually feature a reeded or patterned edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking on the coin face. The bail attachment shows commercial-grade soldering. High relief ensures the design remains visible even with moderate wear.
Authentication Indicators
The characteristic orange-yellow hue of 22K Turkish gold; the specific calligraphic style of the Tughra; density-to-size ratio appears consistent with solid gold rather than plating.
Origin & Maker
Turkey. Likely minted by the Turkish State Mint (Darphane) or a high-quality private jeweler specializing in 'Ziynet' (decorative gold).
Era & Period
Contemporary production (late 20th century to present) mimicking Ottoman Empire numismatic designs (c. 18th-19th century style).
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 20-30 years. The sharpness of the stars and the modern style of the bail suggest a 'New Style' bullion jewelry piece.
Cultural Significance
In Turkish culture, gold coins like these are traditional gifts for weddings, births, and milestones, often pinned to clothing or worn as pendants to display family prosperity.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Numismatic: AU-UNC details). Minor surface abrasions on the high points of the calligraphy. The solder point at the 12 o'clock position is clean.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily on gold content plus a 10-15% jewelry premium. At $2,000/oz spot, the melt value is approximately $480-$520, with a retail value of $650-$750.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid polishing cloths on the frosted areas to prevent burnishing the matte finish. Store separately to avoid scratching the soft 22K surface.
Similar Items
British Sovereigns, French 20 Francs (Roosters), or South African Krugerrand pendants. These differ in fineness (Sovereigns are also 22K but thicker) and design motifs.
Interesting Facts
The Tughra was a Sultan's official seal, acting as a complex monogram that was impossible to forge in its time. Turkey is one of the world's largest consumers of gold for this specific type of 'jewelry-bullion'.