Obverse. Photo © Heritage Auctions
  • 1/4 Rial 1977-1988, KM# 57, Oman, Qaboos bin Said, Omani Forts, Al Hazm Castle
  • 1/4 Rial 1977-1988, KM# 57, Oman, Qaboos bin Said, Omani Forts, Al Hazm Castle
Description

Qaboos bin Said Al Said (1940–2020) was the Sultan of Oman from 23 July 1970 until his death. A fifteenth-generation descendant of the founder of the House of Al Said, he was the longest-serving leader in the Middle East and Arab world at the time of his death.

Obverse

Depicts the National Emblem of Oman, surrounded by the country name on the right, value in Arabic on the left, date in Hijri above, numeral value below.

The national emblem of Oman is an insignia consisting of a khanjar inside its sheath that is superimposed upon two crossed swords. Adopted in the 18th century as the badge of the Omani royal family, it subsequently became the national emblem of the Sultanate of Oman. The emblem is featured at the canton on the Flag of Oman.

A khanjar (Arabic: خنجر‎‎, Persian: خنجر‎‎, Turkish: Hançer) is a traditional dagger originating from Oman. Worn by men for ceremonial occasions, it is a short curved sword shaped like the letter "J" and resembles a hook. It can be made from a variety of different materials, depending on the quality of its craftsmanship. It is a popular souvenir among tourists and is sold in souqs throughout the region. A national symbol of the sultanate, the khanjar is featured on the country's national emblem and on the Omani rial. It is also utilized in logos and commercial imagery by companies based in Oman.

١٣٩٧
سلطنة عمان
ربع ريال
١/٤

Reverse

Depicts an outer view of Al Hazm Castle.

Al Hazm Castle, also referred to as Al Hazm Fort, stands in Rustaq, Oman, with its construction dating back to 1708 under the rule of Imam Sultan bin Saif II, serving as his residence. This imposing structure housed various facilities including a prison, mosque, and religious classrooms. Following the Imam's death in 1718, he was laid to rest within its walls. Recognized for its historical significance, the castle was nominated for inclusion in UNESCO's World Heritage sites list in 1988 and has been undergoing restoration efforts since 2020. Architecturally, it boasts a grand rectangular layout flanked by fortified towers, with an intricately carved wooden door serving as its notable feature.

حصن الحزم

Edge

Country name and date in Hijri.

سلطنة عمان ١٤٠٠

1/4 Rial

KM# 57 Schön# 64
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.917
Weight 12.89 g
Diameter 20 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Mirbat Castle

Omani Forts

Gold, 19.67 g, ⌀ 29 mm
Buraimi Fort

Omani Forts

Gold, 25.6 g, ⌀ 33 mm
Al Hazm Castle

Omani Forts

Silver, 28.28 g, ⌀ 38.61 mm