Ottoman Empire. Sulayman I Qanuni (‘the Lawgiver’), AH 926-974 / AD 1520-1566.

Gold Sultani, Qustantaniyya Mint, AH 926 (AD 1520)

A beautifully preserved and highly desirable Ottoman Empire gold sultani struck in the first year of the reign of Suleiman I—known as Qanuni (“the Lawgiver”) and remembered in the West as Suleiman the Magnificent, one of the greatest and most influential rulers of the Ottoman Empire. Struck at Qustantaniyya (Istanbul) in AH 926 (AD 1520), this early issue marks the beginning of Suleiman’s long and transformative rule.

Obverse

Within a beaded circular border, the inscription reads:
“Sulṭān Sulaymān Shāh ibn Salīm Khān, ʿazza naṣruhū, ḍuriba fī Qusṭanṭaniyya, [sana] 926” —
“Sultan Suleiman Shah, son of Selim Khan. May his victory be honoured! Struck in Qustantaniyya, year 926.”

Reverse

Encircled inscription:
“Ḍārib al-naḍr, ṣāḥib al-ʿizz wa al-naṣr fī al-barr wa al-baḥr” —
“Striker of gold, owner of glory and victory on land and sea.”

Specifications

• Region: Ottoman Empire
• Ruler: Sultan Suleiman I (Qanuni / “the Lawgiver”)
• Mint: Qustantaniyya (Istanbul)
• Denomination: Gold Sultani
• Date: AH 926 (AD 1520)
• Metal: Gold
• Weight: 3.49 g
• Diameter: 20 mm

A well-struck example with attractive surfaces, showing only minor marks and light signs of circulation, typical for coins of this period. Early sultanis of Suleiman I are highly sought after for both their artistry and historical significance.

Grade: Good Very Fine.
Authenticity guaranteed. Photos show the exact coin offered.