Numismatic Auction #22

TRIPOLI: Mahmud II, 1808-1839, BI 40 para (11.98g), Tarabulus Gharb, AH1223, KM-141, UBK-117.02, superb strike, choice EF, RRR, ex Ken Bovenkamp collection, ex our Auction 14, Lot 465. An apparently unpublished variety, with the Arabic letter B (including the point below the letter) in lieu of a number for a regnal year. Since B represents the number 2 in the abjad numerical system, it would appear that the B must refer to regnal year 2. This type is known with regnal years 1-3, plus without regnal year (with a flower rather than an Arabic letter in the appropriate location). Another interesting aspect of this piece is the retrograde accession year 1223 on the reverse, presumably the result of the engraver's chiseling in the date on the reverse, even though it was already totally clear and properly engraved on the obverse.