Turkey Gold 100 Kurush

The Turkish Gold 100 Kurush, also known as the Ottoman lira or Altin, is one of the most prominent gold coins issued during the late Ottoman Empire. First struck in the mid-19th century under Sultan Abdulmecid I, the 100 Kurush became the backbone of Ottoman gold coinage and remained in production into the early 20th century. These coins reflected the empire’s efforts to modernize its monetary system in line with European standards, while also retaining uniquely Ottoman artistry and symbolism.

Key Features:

• Purity: The Ottoman 100 Kurush coins were struck in 91.67% gold (22 karats), higher than the 90% fineness typical of many contemporary European issues. Each coin contains approximately 0.2127 troy ounces of pure gold, providing significant intrinsic value while ensuring durability through a small copper alloy content. Their consistent weight and fineness contributed to their widespread acceptance both within the empire and abroad.

• Design: The obverse of the 100 Kurush features the Sultan’s tughra, an elaborate imperial calligraphic monogram representing the ruler’s authority, accompanied by sprigs of olive or laurel. The reverse typically bears the denomination, mint year (according to the Islamic Hijri calendar), and a wreath design. These elements combine the deep cultural heritage of the Ottoman world with the influence of European-style gold coinage, producing a design that is both elegant and distinctly Turkish.

• Denomination: The 100 Kurush was the standard large gold denomination of the Ottoman Empire, but it was part of a broader gold coinage system that included 25, 50, and 250 Kurush issues. Variants across reigns are distinguished by the different tughras of successive sultans, including Abdulmecid I, Abdulaziz, Abdulhamid II, and Mehmed V. These variations create a wide field of collecting interest, with certain reigns and mint years being rarer than others.

• Collectability: The Turkish 100 Kurush is sought after by collectors for its combination of bullion value, artistic Islamic design, and connection to the fading grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Coins featuring rarer sultans or lower mintage years command premiums, while more common issues remain accessible to collectors seeking both history and gold content. Its unique blend of Eastern calligraphy and European-inspired coinage standards makes the 100 Kurush a standout piece in world gold numismatics.