AFGHANISTAN. CIVIC COPPER. Anonymous, Falus (3.93 g.), AH1227 (1812). Herat. KM-44? A-3235. C/M Ra'ij ("Current").

Explore the numismatic history of Afghanistan with this anonymous Civic Copper Falus, weighing 3.93 grams, issued in AH1227 (1812) from Herat. Cataloged as KM-44? A-3235, this rare coin features the "Ra'ij" ("Current") countermark, adding to its historical intrigue. Collectors and historians will appreciate the coin's craftsmanship and the insight it offers into the economic and cultural landscape of early 19th-century Herat. Delve into the rich heritage of Afghanistan through this exceptional Civic Copper Falus.

The "Ra'ij" countermark on Afghan coins is a significant aspect of Afghanistan's numismatic history, serving practical and administrative purposes across different periods of rule. Initially used during economic transitions, it validated older or foreign coins, ensuring their acceptance in local economies. Under rulers like Ahmad Shah Durrani in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, it standardized circulating coinage throughout the empire. In cities like Herat, the countermark certified coins from various mints, supporting regional economic hubs. This practice provided stability, assuring merchants and the public of coin authenticity and facilitating trade. Today, coins with the "Ra'ij" countermark offer valuable historical insights and hold particular interest for collectors, illustrating Afghanistan's dynamic economic evolution and administrative strategies over time.