Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 20 Dirhams 1975, KM# 15, Libya
  • 20 Dirhams 1975, KM# 15, Libya
Description

The Federation of Arab Republics was an attempt by Libya's Muammar Gaddafi to merge Libya, Egypt and Syria in order to create a United Arab state. Although approved by a referendum in each country on 1 September 1971, the three countries disagreed on the specific terms of the merger. The federation lasted from 1 January 1972 to 19 November 1977.

Obverse

Coat of arms of Libya within the Federation of Arab Republics (1972–1984, used for seven years after the Federation's dissolution) dividing dates, inscriptions "Federation of Arab Republics" above, "Libyan Arab Republic" below.

The coat of arms of the Federation of Arab Republics consists of the Hawk of Quraish supporting a shield bearing a scroll of the words "Federation of Arab Republics" in Arabic. The Hawk of Quraish is a symbol that is found on a number of emblems, coat of arms and flags of several states of the Arab world. The Arabs of the Arabian Peninsula, today especially those from the Persian Gulf coast, are traditionally falconry experts; falcons (and hawks) are seen as status symbols and one of the Arabs' favourite animals. Also the traditions and recorded history about the Quraysh and Muhammad claim a falcon had been used as a clan symbol. Therefore, several variants of the Quraishi hawk were and are seen in the flags, coat of arms, seals and emblems of several Arab states until today. In that meaning, the Hawk of Quraish is a rival to the so-called Eagle of Saladin.

إتحاد الجمهوريات العربية
١٣٩٥ ١٩٧٥
الجمهورية العربية الليبية

Reverse

Crossed wheat spikes below denomination within an ornamental circular frame.

٢٠
درهما

Edge

20 Dirhams

Federation of Arab Republics
KM# 15 Schön# 15
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Egypt
Characteristics
Material Copper Nickel
Weight 5.5 g
Diameter 24 mm
Thickness 1.8 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # KM# MS1

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