1 Dirham United Arab Emirates
Overview
The 1 Dirham coin is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is subdivided into 100 fils. The UAE Dirham was introduced in 1973, replacing the Qatar and Dubai riyal. The 1 Dirham coin is widely used in everyday transactions in the UAE.
Design
The 1 Dirham coin features an intricate design that reflects the UAE's rich cultural heritage. The obverse (front side) of the coin depicts the UAE's national emblem, which consists of a golden falcon with a disk in the middle, surrounded by seven stars representing the seven emirates that make up the UAE.
On the reverse (back side) of the coin, there is an image of a traditional Arabic Coffee Pot (Dallah) and a cup, symbolizing the country's hospitality and warm welcome to visitors. The year of minting and the denomination "1 Dirham" are also inscribed on the reverse side.
Specifications
- Metal: Nickel-brass
- Weight: 6.4 grams
- Diameter: 24 mm
- Thickness: 2.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded (milled)
- Mint: Various mints, including the Royal Mint (UK) and the Royal Canadian Mint
History
The 1 Dirham coin was first introduced in 1973, shortly after the UAE gained independence from the United Kingdom. The coin has undergone several design changes over the years, with the current design introduced in 1995.
Economic Importance
The 1 Dirham coin plays a significant role in the UAE's economy, particularly in small transactions and daily purchases. It is widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and other businesses across the country.
Collectibility
The 1 Dirham coin is also popular among coin collectors due to its unique design and relatively low mintage. Older coins, especially those with lower mintages, are particularly sought after by collectors.
Conclusion
The 1 Dirham United Arab Emirates coin is an essential part of the country's currency system and a symbol of the UAE's rich cultural heritage. Its unique design, combined with its economic importance, makes it a popular collector's item among numismatists.
