Morocco 1974/1394 50 Santimat Cupro-Nickel Coin (Non-Gold)
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic) · None (Silvery-white base metal). The appearance is typical of cupro-nickel coinage rather than white gold or platinum.
Purity: 0% (Cupro-Nickel). This item is not gold; it is a base metal alloy composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Type
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic)
Purity
0% (Cupro-Nickel). This item is not gold; it is a base metal alloy composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Gold Type
None (Silvery-white base metal). The appearance is typical of cupro-nickel coinage rather than white gold or platinum.
Weight
6.0 grams (standard official weight for this denomination).
Description
A standard circulation 50 Santimat coin from the Kingdom of Morocco. The obverse features the national emblem with two lions supporting a crown over a setting sun, and the denomination '50' prominently displayed at the bottom. The dual dating reflects both the Western and Islamic calendars.
Key Features
Features dual dating (1974/1394), the Moroccan Royal Shield, and the denomination in Arabic Santimat.
Color & Finish
Silvery-white or greyish-silver color with a circulated matte finish. No evidence of gold luster; surface shows typical metallic oxidation for base metal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No purity hallmarks. Features the Moroccan Coat of Arms (lion supports and pentagram), Arabic script, and dual dates 1974 (Gregorian) and 1394 (Hijri).
Dimensions Estimate
24.0 mm in diameter and 1.8 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard minted relief design with reeded edges.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin). Edge is reeded (milled).
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Edge features vertical reeding to prevent clipping and for tactile identification.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck coin. Standard industrial die striking with moderate relief. Features clean alignment (medal turn/coin turn) and consistent reeding.
Authentication Indicators
Weight of approx 6g and 24mm size align with official Moroccan mint specs. The '50' numeral and Arabic text are consistent with known specimens from the 1970s. Note: This item is often mistaken for silver or gold in low light, but it has no precious metal markers.
Origin & Maker
Morocco; struck at the Dar As-Sikkah (Moroccan Mint).
Era & Period
Modern Era; Reign of King Hassan II of Morocco (1961-1999).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1974. Currently 50 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the monetary history of post-independence Morocco under the Alaouite Dynasty. Part of the first major decimal coinage series transitioned from the Rial system.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Fine. Shows minor surface scratches, softening of the lion details, and typical rim nicks from general use. No significant corrosion.
Value Estimate
$0.25 - $1.00 USD. It has no melt value in gold or silver. Value is purely numismatic for low-grade world coin collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft cotton cloth; do not use silver polish or harsh chemicals as it is base metal. Store in a dry plastic flip to prevent 'PVC green' corrosion.
Similar Items
Morocco 1 Dirham (larger), 10 Santimat (smaller/aluminum-bronze). Sometimes confused with the 1974 Silver 50 Dirham commemorative, which is much larger and specifically marked as 0.925 silver.
Interesting Facts
The 1394 date refers to the Islamic Lunar Hijri calendar. The sun on the coat of arms refers to the Atlas Mountains and the 'Land of the setting sun'.