Description

Qasr Harrana, also known by various names including Qasr al-Kharana, Harana, and Qasr al-Harrana, stands as one of the renowned desert castles situated in present-day eastern Jordan, approximately 60 kilometers (37 mi) east of Amman and close to the Saudi Arabian border. The exact construction date of the palace remains uncertain, but it is believed to have its origins in the Umayyad Dynasty, with an inscription on an upper wall suggesting a pre-710 CE origin. There are suggestions of a prior Greek or Byzantine structure at the site. The purpose of the building has sparked debate among scholars, with theories ranging from a Crusader's castle to a military stronghold, agricultural outpost, or a resting place for caravan travelers. The prevailing scholarly view is that it served as a meeting point for local Bedouin leaders.

Hussein bin Talal (1935–1999) was King of Jordan from the abdication of his father, King Talal, in 1952, until his death. Hussein's rule extended through the Cold War and four decades of Arab–Israeli conflict.

Obverse

Depicts a bust of Hussein bin Talal, encircled by the inscriptions "Hussein bin Talal" and "King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan," with the denomination written in Arabic numerals and letters, along with the date in Hijri format below. Positioned above is the coat of arms of Jordan.

The coat of arms of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan features the Royal Hashemite Crown, symbolizing monarchy, adorned with lotus flowers atop a crimson sash representing purity and sacrifice. Two flags symbolize the Great Arab Revolt, while an eagle stands on the globe, signifying power and the emergence of Islamic civilization. Arab weaponry, including swords and spears, is depicted alongside a shield adorned with a chrysanthemum motif, representing defense. Wheat ears and a palm frond encircle the shield, connected to the ribbon of the Al Nahda First Order Medal, which bears inscriptions honoring historical figures and the kingdom's sovereignty.

الحسين بن طلال
ملك المملكة الأردنية الهاشمية
١/٢
نصف دينار
١٣٨٩

Reverse

Depicts an outer view of Qasr Kharana (Al Harraneh Palace) with its name below inside a circle surrounded by the country name above, the value in English numerals and letters with the date in Gregorian below in front of net design.

THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN
1000
AL HARRANEH PALACE
HALF ½ 1969
DINAR

Edge

1/2 Dinar

Al Harraneh Palace

KM# 21 Schön# 20
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 20 g
Diameter 35 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # KM# PS3, KM# PS4, KM# PS6
Mint
Royal Mint

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