22K Turkish Gold Quarter Ziynet (Cumhuriyet) Coin Pendant
Pendant stylized as a Coin/Bullion Token · Yellow Gold. High-purity alloy with rich, saturated warm yellow tones characteristic of Near Eastern gold.
Purity: 22 Karat (91.6% Fine Gold). Traditional Turkish jewelry coinage is strictly minted at .916 fineness to balance durability with intrinsic value.
Type
Pendant stylized as a Coin/Bullion Token
Purity
22 Karat (91.6% Fine Gold). Traditional Turkish jewelry coinage is strictly minted at .916 fineness to balance durability with intrinsic value.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. High-purity alloy with rich, saturated warm yellow tones characteristic of Near Eastern gold.
Weight
Approximately 1.75 grams for the coin alone, with the bezel bringing it to roughly 2.0 - 2.2 grams.
Description
This item is a Turkish 'Ceyrek Altin' or Quarter Gold coin, specifically the Ziynet variety used for jewelry and gifts. It features the majestic Tughra monogram at the center, framed by a crescent of five-pointed stars and an ornate laurel wreath. This specific design is a staple of Turkish culture, representing both a store of wealth and a traditional gift for weddings and births.
Key Features
The central Tughra (Royal Cipher), the crown of twelve stars, and the laurel wreath border. The integration of a jewelry loop suggests it was intended for wear rather than strictly for bullion storage.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow with a satin-to-bright luster. The background features a fine texture while the raised Tughra and wreath elements show a semi-polished relief finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the Ottoman-style Tughra (calligraphic monogram) and 12 stars. Jewelry bezels for these items are rarely hallmarked on the coin itself but might have a small '916' or '22K' stamp on the bail jump ring.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 18mm in diameter (Standard Turkish Quarter Gold size), small-to-medium scale pendant.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on the intricate relief of the calligraphic Tughra and the surrounding laurel wreath and stars.
Clasp & Closure
Fixed gold jump ring attached to a simple tapered bail for suspension on a chain (chain not shown).
Chain & Links
N/A. The item is a pendant. The coin edge appears smooth within the bezel setting, typical of decorative bullion jewelry.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck production with a soldered-on gold jump ring. The relief is medium-low to allow for flat wear against the chest, with excellent symmetry in the wreath and star placement.
Authentication Indicators
The specific mustard-yellow color is very consistent with 22K Turkish gold. The precision of the Tughra's lines and the crispness of the stars are indicative of official or high-standard artisanal minting.
Origin & Maker
Turkey. Likely minted by the Turkish State Mint (Darphane) or a high-quality private refiner specializing in jewelry gold for the Grand Bazaar trade.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Republic. While it uses Ottoman-style motifs (Tughra), it is a modern 'Ziynet' (decorative) gold coin produced in the 20th or 21st century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The sharpness of the modern strike and the style of the jewelry bail suggest relatively recent production.
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant in Turkish social traditions as a 'mobile bank.' It bridges the gap between numismatics and jewelry, serving as a primary method for families to save and gift physical gold.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The strike is clear with minimal high-point wear. There is light surface rubbing consistent with being worn as a pendant, but no significant dents or 'ex-jewelry' solder damage to the coin face.
Value Estimate
The value is primarily based on the 'spot' price of 22K gold by weight, usually carrying a 5-10% premium for the jewelry bezel and cultural demand. Estimated market value: $140 - $180 USD depending on current gold prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive polishing as 22K gold is soft and easily scratched. Store separately from harder 14K jewelry to prevent surface marring.
Similar Items
Turkish Full (Tam) Gold Coin, Half (Yarim) Gold Coin, and the 'Resat' Gold Coin which features a more historical Ottoman profile.
Interesting Facts
In Turkey, these coins are often pinned to the clothing of newlyweds or newborns as a form of financial security. The Tughra on the coin is a calligraphic signature of an Ottoman Sultan, though modern versions are used decoratively.