[Republic of Egypt Silver Coins 5 Piaster and 10 Piaster (1956-1957)]
Witnesses to history, engraved with the eternal sphinx and symbols of revolution
A rare silver coin series that combines modern Egyptian history and ancient civilization
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overview
These are 5 and 10 piastre silver coins minted during the early period of the Egyptian Republic (1953-1958). The obverse of the coin features a majestic depiction of the Great Sphinx of Giza, while the reverse features the words "Republic of Egypt" inscribed in Arabic calligraphy, along with an intricately designed eagle with outstretched wings surrounding the lower center of the coin.
This silver coin is an important currency issued during the turbulent period when Egypt was transitioning from a monarchy to a republic, and it combines historical value with artistic beauty. It is highly valued by collectors around the world as an essential piece in any Middle Eastern or African modern coin collection.
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Coin specifications (5 piastre silver coin)
• Publication date: 1375-1376 Hijri (1956-1957 Gregorian)
• Country of issue: Arab Republic of Egypt
• Face value: 5 Piastres (0.05 Egyptian pounds)
• Metal composition: 72% silver, 28% copper
• Weight: 3.5 grams
• Diameter: 22mm
• Thickness: Approximately 0.95 mm
• Shape: Round
• Stamping technique: Milled edge (serrated)
• Orientation: Medal Alignment (↑↑)
• Status: Demonetized (abolished as legal tender)
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Coin specifications (10 piastre silver coin)
• Publication date: 1375-1376 Hijri (1956-1957 Gregorian)
• Country of issue: Arab Republic of Egypt
• Face value: 10 Piastres (0.10 Egyptian pounds)
• Metal composition: 72% silver, 28% copper
• Weight: 7.0 grams
• Diameter: 26mm
• Thickness: Approximately 1.75 mm
• Shape: Round
• Stamping technique: Milled edge
• Orientation: Medal Alignment (↑↑)
• Status: Demonetized
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Historical background
The Egyptian Revolution and the Birth of a New Nation
The years 1956-1957, when this silver coin was issued, were a turning point in Egyptian history. Following the Egyptian Revolution of 1952, the Kingdom of Egypt was abolished in 1953 and a republic was established under President Gamal Abdel Nasser. In 1956, the nationalization of the Suez Canal was announced, leading to the outbreak of the Suez Crisis (Second Arab-Israeli War). Egypt continued to build its identity as an independent nation, even as it confronted Western powers.
The national symbolism of that era is embodied in this silver coin.
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Design and symbolism
Surface (Abas): "Great Sphinx of Giza"
The Sphinx is a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization, representing eternity, wisdom, and mystery. It is highly symbolic that this ancient guardian deity was depicted during the construction of the modern nation in the 1950s. Although Egypt transitioned from a monarchy to a republic, it did not sever its cultural and historical roots, but rather embraced them with pride.
The background of the Sphinx has both the Hijri and Gregorian calendars written on it, demonstrating Egypt's open attitude towards the international community, despite being an Islamic country.
Reverse: "Arabic calligraphy and eagle wings"
The reverse side reads "Republic of Egypt" in elegant Arabic script, with the denomination of "5" or "10" and the number "Qirsh" (piaster) clearly written in the lower center. The motif of flapping wings around the coin seems to suggest the soaring of a new nation, making it a masterpiece of national art intended to promote national prestige.
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Collectibles and international recognition
The silver coins in this series are highly prized by coin collectors and researchers of modern Middle Eastern history worldwide, as they are among the earliest republican coins minted after the Egyptian Revolution of 1953. Their high purity of 72% silver made them extremely high quality even at the time, and their rarity has led to their value increasing year by year.
They are also registered in international numismatic databases such as Numista, clearly indicating their collectible status. Their catalog numbers, such as KM#383a and KM#10632, also make them highly reliable collector's items, and they enjoy a stable market reputation.
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Why Gold Silver Japan delivers
At GoldSilverJapan, we carefully select and offer only genuine silver coins that combine both history and artistry. This Republic of Egypt silver coin series is not just a precious metal for investment; it has value as a historical record, cultural heritage, and work of art.
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Recommended for:
• Those who collect coins with historical background
• Anyone interested in modern coinage from the Arab world and the Middle East
• Collectors who appreciate artistic design
• People interested in the Sphinx, a World Heritage Site, and ancient Egypt
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Summary of attractions
✅ The rarity of high-purity silver (.720)
✅ Witness to the early history of the Egyptian Republic
✅ Artistic design that combines the Sphinx and Arabic letters
✅ A highly acclaimed collector's item worldwide
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This beautiful silver coin is more than just a currency. It is a small piece of history that embodies the wisdom of Egyptian civilization spanning thousands of years and the birth of the modern nation. Be sure to add it to your collection.
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(Search keywords: Egyptian silver coins, piastres, Republic of Egypt coins, Sphinx coins, ancient civilization coins, Arab silver coins, 1956 Egypt, modern Middle Eastern coins)
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