Question
Describe the facts regarding the coinage reform of Abda-Malik.
Solution
The coinage reform of Abda-Malik:
1. The three coin specimens show the transition from Byzantine to Arab-Islamic coinage. On the second coin, the bearded and long -haired caliph is dressed in traditional Arab robes and is holding a sword. It is the first extant portrait of a Muslim.
1. The three coin specimens show the transition from Byzantine to Arab-Islamic coinage. On the second coin, the bearded and long -haired caliph is dressed in traditional Arab robes and is holding a sword. It is the first extant portrait of a Muslim.
2. It is also unique because later there developed an antipathy towards the representation of living beings in art and craft. Abd al-malik’s reform of coinage was linked with his reorganisation of state finances.
3. It is also unique because later there developed an antipathy towards the representation of living beings in art and craft. Abd al-malik’s reform of coinage was linked with his reorganisation of state finances.
4. It proved so successful that for hundreds of years, coins were struck according to the pattern and weight of the third specimen.
