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Iraq 1 Dinar 1981
Discover the Iraq 1 Dinar 1981, a stunning coin rich with history and stories from the many hands it’s passed through over the years.
At Hoard of the Rings, you can have this remarkable piece handcrafted into a unique coin ring, perfectly blending heritage with contemporary style. Whether as a thoughtful gift for a loved one, a cherished keepsake for a friend, or a distinctive addition to your jewelry collection, this ring honors timeless memories in an elegant form. Experience the artistry and meaning behind each handcrafted creation at Hoard of the Rings. Elevate your collection with a piece that truly tells a story.

Iraq 1 Dinar 1981

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  • The Iraq 1 Dinar coin from 1981 (AH 1401) is a distinctive, historically rich circulation piece from the Republic of Iraq, notable for its bold geometric shape, symbolic agricultural imagery, and production by the Royal Mint in the United Kingdom. Below is a structured, detailed summary that captures its physical characteristics, design elements, historical context, and collector relevance.

    Overview

    The 1981 Iraqi 1 Dinar is a nickel, decagonal (10‑sided) circulation coin issued during the Ba'athist era. It represents one of the highest-denomination circulating coins Iraq produced at the time and reflects the country’s emphasis on agricultural prosperity and national identity. 1

    Physical Specifications

    • Denomination: 1 Dinar

    • Year: 1981 (Islamic year 1401)

    • Composition: Nickel

    • Weight: 13.0 g

    • Diameter: 33.0 mm

    • Thickness: 2.02 mm

    • Shape: Decagonal (10-sided)

    • Edge: Reeded

    • Mint: Royal Mint, Llantrisant, United Kingdom

    • Orientation: Medal alignment (↑↑)
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    These specifications make it one of the more substantial modern Middle Eastern circulation coins, both in size and weight.

    Obverse Design

    The obverse features:

    • The denomination “1 Dinar” centered within a circular border

    • Decorative sprigs flanking the value

    • Arabic inscription “الجمهورية العراقية” (Republic of Iraq) above
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    The design emphasizes national identity and clarity of denomination.

    Reverse Design

    The reverse depicts:

    • A row of palm trees, a national symbol of Iraq and a reference to the country’s historic date‑palm agriculture

    • The dual date 1401 / 1981 in Arabic numerals

    • A clean, symmetrical layout divided by the palm trunks
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    Palm trees were a recurring motif in Iraqi coinage, symbolizing fertility, resilience, and economic heritage.

    Historical Context

    The coin was issued during the early 1980s, a period marked by:

    • The Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988)

    • Strong state-driven national symbolism

    • Continued modernization of Iraq’s currency system

    Despite the wartime economy, Iraq maintained a robust coinage program, often outsourcing minting to the Royal Mint in the UK.

    Collector Notes

    • Catalog reference: KM #170

    • Rarity: Generally common (Numista rarity index: 9)

    • Typical market value:

      • Circulated grades: around $1.20

      • Uncirculated: $4–6

      • Exceptional XF examples have sold for higher at auction
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    Because of its unusual shape and strong national symbolism, it remains a popular entry-level collectible for Middle Eastern numismatics.

    Significance for Collectors

    This coin stands out for:

    • Its distinctive decagonal shape

    • Its large size and weight, unusual for a modern 1‑unit denomination

    • Its agricultural symbolism, tying it to Iraq’s cultural identity

    • Its production by the Royal Mint, adding international minting interest

    It is a great piece for collectors focusing on:

    • Middle Eastern coinage

    • Geometric or multi‑sided coins

    • 20th‑century world circulation coins

    • Coins with strong national symbolism

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