Pahlavi Gold Coins Explained: Types, Weights and What Each One Is Worth

Pahlavi gold coins are among the most recognised Persian gold coins, valued not only for their gold content but also for their historical background and collectable appeal. Understanding pahlavi gold coin value requires looking at several factors, including the coin’s weight, gold purity, actual gold content, condition, rarity and historical significance.

This guide explains the different types of Pahlavi gold coins, their weights, how their value is calculated, the difference between coins from Reza Shah Pahlavi and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, and what buyers should know before purchasing or collecting them.

What Is a Pahlavi Gold Coin?

A Pahlavi gold coin is a Persian gold coin introduced during the Pahlavi era of Persian. These coins were produced in different denominations, from smaller fractional coins to larger gold pieces, and were made from gold with 900 fineness, commonly described as 22 carat gold in jewellery and collecting markets.

The coins feature important national symbols and historical details, including the Lion and Sun emblem and inscriptions connected with the issuing period. Today, Pahlavi coins are collected for both their gold value and their connection to Persian history.

For readers interested in the historical background of the Pahlavi period and Persian symbols, our article The History of the Lion and Sun: The Qajar and Pahlavi Dynasties of Persian provides further context.

Pahlavi Gold Coin Types, Weights and Specifications

The value of a Pahlavi gold coin starts with understanding its denomination and gold content. Different sizes contain different amounts of gold, which directly affects their base value.

The actual gold weight is the most important starting point when calculating the metal value of a Pahlavi coin. The gross weight includes the complete coin, while the pure gold weight represents the amount of gold contained within it.

How Much Is a Pahlavi Gold Coin Worth?

The value of a Pahlavi gold coin depends on more than its weight alone. The basic calculation starts with the amount of pure gold inside the coin, but collectable factors can increase its value.

The two main components are:

• Bullion value: the value of the gold content based on the current gold market price.
• Numismatic value: the additional value created by rarity, condition, historical period and collector demand.

A rare or well-preserved coin may have a value above its gold content, while a more common example may be valued mainly according to its gold weight.

How to Calculate the Value of a Pahlavi Gold Coin

The simplest way to estimate the gold value of a Pahlavi coin is to calculate the pure gold content and compare it with the current gold price.

The basic formula is:

Pure gold weight × current gold price per gram = approximate gold value

For example, a one Pahlavi coin contains approximately 7.32 grams of pure gold. The value of the gold content changes as the international gold price changes, which is why fixed prices become outdated quickly.

Collectors should also consider factors such as condition, rarity, date, authenticity and demand before determining the final market value.

The Difference Between Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi Coins

Pahlavi coins were issued during different periods of the Pahlavi dynasty, including the reigns of Reza Shah Pahlavi and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. The main differences are related to the ruler shown, the dates of issue and design details.

For collectors, identifying the issuing period is important because historical context can influence collectable interest. The coin should always be examined through its inscriptions, design features and physical characteristics rather than appearance alone.

Are Pahlavi Gold Coins 22 Carat or 21.6 Carat?

Pahlavi gold coins are commonly described as 22 carat gold, but technically their purity is 900 fineness. This means the coin contains 90 percent pure gold and other metals make up the remaining percentage.

In jewellery terms, 900 fineness equals approximately 21.6 carat. This difference in wording often causes confusion because collectors and sellers may use both descriptions.

How to Check if a Pahlavi Gold Coin Is Genuine

Authenticity is one of the most important considerations when buying historical gold coins. A genuine Pahlavi coin should be examined through its weight, dimensions, design details and gold composition.

• Check the weight against known specifications.
• Compare the diameter and design details with trusted references.
• Examine inscriptions, symbols and craftsmanship.
• Use professional testing methods when authenticity is uncertain.

Small differences in weight, lettering or design can indicate that a coin requires further examination.

Pahlavi Gold Coins and Persian Coin Jewellery

A genuine Pahlavi coin can also become part of a Persian jewellery design. Some collectors choose to preserve the historical character of the coin while wearing it as a necklace or other jewellery piece.

Persis Collection offers original Persian coin jewellery, including designs using Pahlavi coins. Examples include the Persian Gold Coins collection and Pahlavi coin necklace designs created around authentic coins.

For those interested in Persian jewellery traditions and craftsmanship, our Persian Gold Jewellery guide explores the wider history of Persian gold jewellery.

Our Experience at Persis Collection

At Persis Collection, Pahlavi gold coins are offered as carefully prepared pieces with detailed product information, including purity, weight and specifications. Our Pahlavi coin products are made to order, with production generally taking two to four weeks before dispatch.

This approach allows each piece to be prepared carefully, especially when a customer chooses a genuine coin as part of a jewellery design. Unlike sellers focused only on bullion value, Persis Collection also works with the artistic and cultural side of Persian gold craftsmanship.

Conclusion

Pahlavi gold coins represent a combination of precious metal value, historical significance and collecting interest. To understand what a Pahlavi coin is worth, it is important to look beyond the coin’s size and consider its pure gold content, condition, authenticity and collectable characteristics.

Whether you are researching the weight of different denominations, comparing historical coins or exploring Persian coin jewellery, understanding these factors helps you make a more informed decision. Explore the Pahlavi Gold Coins collection at Persis Collection to view available pieces and designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is one Pahlavi coin worth?

The value of one Pahlavi coin depends on its pure gold content, current gold prices, condition and collectable value.

How many grams is one Pahlavi gold coin?

A one Pahlavi gold coin weighs approximately 8.13 grams and contains around 7.32 grams of pure gold.

How much is a 5 Pahlavi gold coin worth?

A five Pahlavi gold coin contains approximately 36.61 grams of pure gold, and its value depends on current gold prices and collectable factors.

What are the different types of Pahlavi gold coins?

The main denominations include quarter Pahlavi, half Pahlavi, one Pahlavi, two and a half Pahlavi, five Pahlavi and ten Pahlavi.

Are Pahlavi coins 22 carat or 21.6 carat?

Pahlavi coins have 900 fineness, which is technically equal to approximately 21.6 carat, although they are commonly described as 22 carat gold coins.

What is the difference between a Pahlavi coin and an Azadi coin?

Pahlavi coins were issued during the Pahlavi era, while Azadi gold coins belong to a later period and have their own design and issuing history.

How can you tell if a Pahlavi coin is genuine?

Authenticity can be checked through weight, dimensions, design details, inscriptions and professional gold testing.

Can a Pahlavi gold coin be worn as a necklace?

Yes, genuine Pahlavi coins can be incorporated into Persian jewellery designs such as necklaces while preserving their historical character.

What is the difference between gold value and numismatic value?

Gold value refers to the metal content of the coin, while numismatic value considers rarity, condition, history and collector interest.

How much gold is in a quarter Pahlavi coin?

A quarter Pahlavi coin contains approximately 1.83 grams of pure gold.