Obverse. Photo © Katz Auction
  • 5 Qirsh 1979, KM# 116, Syria
  • 5 Qirsh 1979, KM# 116, Syria
Obverse

Syrian coat of arms, date (AD left and AH right) in Arabic digits below.

The coat of arms of the Syrian Arab Republic consists of the Hawk of Quraish with 3 stars supporting a shield bearing the national flag of Syria (in vertical form), and a scroll of the words "Syrian Arab Republic" in Arabic.

The Hawk of Quraish is a symbol which 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 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.

الجمهورية العربية السورية
١٣٩٩ - ١٩٧٩

Reverse

Value within diamond shape above design flanked by stars. Country name below.

٥
قروش
الجمهورية العربية السورية

Edge

5 Qirsh (Piastres)

KM# 116 Schön# 49
Characteristics
Material Brass
Weight 3 g
Diameter 19 mm
Thickness 1.5 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # KM# MS2

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