Belycate of Tunisia (1795-1881) Coin List

The Tunisian Belycate era, which lasted from 1795 to 1881, was a crucial period in Tunisia's history, marked by important political, economic and social changes. During this time, the Tunisian monetary system underwent several transformations that reflected the evolution of the country and its position in the international context.

Historical and political context

The Belycat period began under the rule of the Husaynite dynasty, which ruled Tunisia as a semi-autonomous province of the Ottoman Empire. During this time, Tunisia faced internal and external challenges, including European colonial pressures and the need to modernize its economy and administration. French influence gradually grew, culminating in the establishment of the French protectorate in 1881, which marked the end of the Belychate era. This political context had a direct impact on the Tunisian monetary system, which was forced to adapt to the changing economic and political realities.

Monetary system and numismatics

The monetary system during the Tunisian Belychate was characterized by the coexistence of local and international currencies. The main monetary unit was the Tunisian piastre, which was subdivided into nasri and kharub. The most common currencies included the gold mahbub and the silver rial, along with smaller denominations in copper. Throughout the 19th century, Tunisia issued several series of coins reflecting the evolution of the country. Notably, in 1847, a monetary reform was introduced that sought to standardize the system and improve the quality of the mintages. Coins of this period often featured Arabic inscriptions and traditional symbols, although towards the end of the Belycate, they began to incorporate European design elements, presaging the growing French influence.

The most valuable and popular coins

The most valuable Belycate of Tunisia (1795-1881) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:

The valuation of these coins list has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.

Old coins of Tunisia

To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of Tunisia.

Coin Catalog

Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Tunisia

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