Watch List notes:

Abbasid, al-Mustarshid (512-529h), dinar, Isfahan 512h, obv., unread word above; name of caliph below, rev., in field: Qur'an 48: 1-3, 'We have given you a great victory, that God may cover up your shortcomings, past and future, and that he may complete his favour on you and may guide you on the straight path, and help you with everlasting help,' around which, starting at 3 o'clock: 'Conclude – Lord, you have blessed – with benevolence – alone,' 3.21g (see Younis, M., 'Seljuq Dinars of Isfahan 512/1118, Dating for the Military Confrontation between Sanjar and Mahmud' in Rasmir: Oriental Numismatics, Proceedings of the 1st International Scientific Conference held in Odessa, Ukraine, 29-31 July 2011, pp.137-142; cf Morton & Eden auction 54, 23 April 2012, lot 95), fine to good fine and extremely rare. This remarkable coin with its highly distinctive religious verses was struck in a year of considerable political change. The previous caliph, al-Mustazhir, died earlier in this year, while there was war among the Seljuqs between Sultan Mahmud and Sanjar, with the latter finally prevailing in 513h. Presumably, while the outcome of the fighting was in doubt, it was felt safest to strike coins acknowledging neither. (£1500-2000)