22K Yellow Gold Ottoman Tughra Coin Pendant with Bezel
Pendant (Coin/Religious Medal style) · Yellow Gold. The intense, deep yellow hue suggests a high gold-to-alloy ratio typically found in 21K or 22K gold, likely alloyed with small amounts of copper and silver.
Purity: Likely 22K (91.6% purity). This is a standard purity for Middle Eastern gold coins and contemporary jewelry reproductions of this style. High gold content represents wealth and status.
Type
Pendant (Coin/Religious Medal style)
Purity
Likely 22K (91.6% purity). This is a standard purity for Middle Eastern gold coins and contemporary jewelry reproductions of this style. High gold content represents wealth and status.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The intense, deep yellow hue suggests a high gold-to-alloy ratio typically found in 21K or 22K gold, likely alloyed with small amounts of copper and silver.
Weight
5 to 8 grams for the pendant and bezel; the coin itself appears to be a half or quarter Lira equivalent in weight (approx 1.7 to 3.5 grams).
Description
This striking 22K yellow gold pendant features the iconic Tughra—the calligraphic monogram of an Ottoman Sultan—framed by a traditional laurel wreath and stars. The high-purity gold gives the piece an unmistakable glow, characteristic of fine Middle Eastern jewelry. It is held in a minimalist bezel that focuses all attention on the intricate symbols of power and heritage. The piece serves both as a beautiful accessory and a portable store of value.
Key Features
Ottoman Tughra calligraphy, seven-star arc, textured laurel wreath, and high-purity yellow gold composition.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich golden yellow with a satin-matte background in the pendant fields and a polished finish on the raised Tughra and wreath. The bezel shows a slight hammered or hand-finished texture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; typically, such items have a 22K or 916 stamp on the bail or the rear rim of the bezel. The coin face features the Sultan's Tughra (calligraphic monogram).
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approx 18mm to 22mm (roughly the size of a US nickel or dime), with a bail suitable for a 3mm to 5mm chain.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on the calligraphic metalwork and relief texture.
Clasp & Closure
Large tapered bail (v-loop) designed to slide onto a chain. The bail shows signs of hand-shaping and is fairly wide to accommodate various chain thicknesses.
Chain & Links
Pendant is shown on a silver-toned (likely steel or silver) Figaro link chain. The pendant itself features a smooth, round bezel with no decorative prongs, securing the coin by a folded edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck center with a hand-assembled bezel and bail. The soldering point between the bezel and the bail ring appears sturdy but shows slight hand-made variability.
Authentication Indicators
Saturated yellow color indicates high karatage; design matches standard Turkish 'Resat Gold' jewelry motifs. Red flag: The chain is white metal, which often denotes the pendant may have been purchased separately and could be plated if bought through unreputable sources—though color saturation suggests solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely Turkey. The Tughra (Sultan's signature) is the national symbol used on Turkish coinage and jewelry, produced predominantly in the Grand Bazaar regions of Istanbul.
Era & Period
Contemporary reproduction of an Ottoman Empire numismatic design. While the Tughra motif dates back centuries, the crispness and finish suggest a late 20th to 21st-century manufacturing.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - present. The lack of significant circulation wear on the coin indicates it was likely struck for jewelry purposes rather than serving as currency.
Cultural Significance
In Turkey and former Ottoman territories, gold coins and Tughra jewelry are traditional gifts for weddings and births, representing financial security and familial blessings.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Minor surface scratches on the bail and bezel. The central coin motif remains crisp with high relief detail. The chain is an aftermarket addition and appears to be a different metal.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by melt value plus a 15-25% craftsmanship premium. Estimated market value at current spot prices: $350 - $600 USD depending on verified weight.
Care & Maintenance
High karat gold is soft and prone to scratching. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Keep away from the steel chain when not in use to avoid abrasion. Avoid polishing cloths with abrasives.
Similar Items
Turkish Republic gold coins, PAMP Suisse gold pendants, Saudi Arabian 21K gold medals, and Victorian sovereign coin pendants.
Interesting Facts
The Tughra was a unique calligraphic signature for each Sultan, designed to be impossible to forge. It was used on every official document and coin in the Ottoman Empire.