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The Foundation of the UAE and Numismatics
The unification of six emirates into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on December 2, 1971, followed by the inclusion of an additional seventh emirate, marked a significant historical event that found its reflection in numismatics. The newly formed state also introduced its national currency, the dirham, and released its first coins in 1973.
The First UAE Coins
The initial coin series issued by the UAE included denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 fils, as well as 1 dirham. These coins were made of cupronickel and bronze and featured traditional symbols of UAE's culture and nature. For instance, the coins depicted images of a coffee pot, swords, and frankincense trees, reflecting the rich heritage and history of the country.
Over time, the field of UAE numismatics witnessed the issuance of commemorative and jubilee coins that reflected significant events in the country's history.
UAE Jubilee Coins - 1976
In 1976, a gold coin with a denomination of 500 dirhams was released to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the National Day of the country. This coin was not intended for circulation and featured the portrait of President Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who led the UAE from 1971 to 2004. The coin was made of .916 fine gold, weighed 19.97 grams, had a diameter of 25mm, and a round shape.
This commemorative coin was minted at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, United Kingdom, highlighting the strong historical ties between the UAE and Britain. The British played a significant role in the formation of the UAE, providing support and guidance during the unification process. The coin was released on December 2, 1976, at a price of 650 AED.
The portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on the coin pays tribute to his role as the founder of the UAE. He played a pivotal role in uniting the emirates and establishing the federal structure of the country. His leadership and vision for the UAE led to significant progress.
The gold content of the coin and its limited mintage make it a valuable collectible item. With a gold purity of .916 (22 carat) and a weight of 19.97 grams, the coin contains approximately 18.3 grams of pure gold. Its limited mintage adds to its rarity and desirability among collectors.
The 500 dirham coin represents an opportunity for the UAE to establish its national identity through currency. Since the release of this coin, the UAE has continued to issue commemorative coins and banknotes to mark significant milestones and events in the country's history.
The First UAE Coins
The initial coin series issued by the UAE included denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 fils, as well as 1 dirham. These coins were made of cupronickel and bronze and featured traditional symbols of UAE's culture and nature. For instance, the coins depicted images of a coffee pot, swords, and frankincense trees, reflecting the rich heritage and history of the country.
Over time, the field of UAE numismatics witnessed the issuance of commemorative and jubilee coins that reflected significant events in the country's history.
UAE Jubilee Coins - 1976
In 1976, a gold coin with a denomination of 500 dirhams was released to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the National Day of the country. This coin was not intended for circulation and featured the portrait of President Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who led the UAE from 1971 to 2004. The coin was made of .916 fine gold, weighed 19.97 grams, had a diameter of 25mm, and a round shape.
This commemorative coin was minted at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, United Kingdom, highlighting the strong historical ties between the UAE and Britain. The British played a significant role in the formation of the UAE, providing support and guidance during the unification process. The coin was released on December 2, 1976, at a price of 650 AED.
The portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on the coin pays tribute to his role as the founder of the UAE. He played a pivotal role in uniting the emirates and establishing the federal structure of the country. His leadership and vision for the UAE led to significant progress.
The gold content of the coin and its limited mintage make it a valuable collectible item. With a gold purity of .916 (22 carat) and a weight of 19.97 grams, the coin contains approximately 18.3 grams of pure gold. Its limited mintage adds to its rarity and desirability among collectors.
The 500 dirham coin represents an opportunity for the UAE to establish its national identity through currency. Since the release of this coin, the UAE has continued to issue commemorative coins and banknotes to mark significant milestones and events in the country's history.
Anniversary Coins of the UAE. Year 1996
In 1996, a silver coin with a denomination of 50 dirhams was released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the formation of the UAE. This coin also featured the portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the UAE, as well as symbols representing each of the seven emirates.
Anniversary Coins of the UAE. Year 1996
In 1996, a silver coin with a denomination of 50 dirhams was released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the formation of the UAE. This coin also featured the portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the UAE, as well as symbols representing each of the seven emirates.
Anniversary Coins of the UAE. Year 2011
In 2011, a 100 dirhams coin was issued to commemorate the 40th National Day of the United Arab Emirates. This coin is not intended for circulation and features the portrait of President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who held office from 2004 to 2022. The coin is made of .925 silver and weighs 60 grams. It has a diameter of 60 mm and a round shape. The coin was produced using milling and coloring techniques, with a medal alignment.
The obverse side of the coin depicts the bust of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, slightly turned to the right. The inscription reads: "His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, 100 dirhams, President of the United Arab Emirates." The reverse side features the silhouette of the iconic image of the founders of the United Arab Emirates, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, with the UAE flag in the center. The design is colored, and the inscriptions include "Spirit of Unity," "National Day," "United Arab Emirates," and their Arabic translations. The edge of the coin has a ribbed surface. The coin was released on November 30, 2011, at a price of 522 AED. It is a highly sought-after collectible item for coin enthusiasts and those interested in the history of the United Arab Emirates. The limited mintage of only 2000 pieces adds to its rarity and collectible appeal.
The numismatics of the UAE has become a mirror of the country's history and culture. Each coin becomes an indirect witness to the UAE's path from the unification of small emirates to transforming them into a modern and thriving nation. Coins issued in different periods reflect not only historical events but also changes in UAE's culture, economy, and politics.