This pendant features a genuine silver dirhem struck under the Seljuk sultan Ghiyath al-Din Kay Khusraw II during his first reign (AD 1237–1246). The obverse shows a lion advancing right, paw raised, with a radiant sun and star above—an image rich with both astrological and regal symbolism. The reverse presents the sultan’s name and titles in elegant Kufic script, framed within a square and surrounded by the mint and date in the margin.
Set in an open 18k gold prong setting, the coin’s edge and full surfaces remain visible—highlighting its thin flan and intricate inscriptions. This handcrafted frame balances secure preservation with respect for the coin’s ancient artistry.
The History
The Seljuks of Rum, ruling over Anatolia in the 13th century, oversaw a flourishing of art, architecture, and trade. Their coins often carried both regal titles and celestial imagery, reflecting a synthesis of Islamic tradition with Central Asian and Persian influences.
The lion and sun motif is among the most distinctive of Seljuk coin designs. Interpreted variously as symbols of sovereignty, cosmic order, and divine protection, it later became a recurring emblem across Islamic and Persianate cultures. This dirhem, struck at the Siwas mint in AH 640 (AD 1242/3), stands as both a monetary artifact and a piece of symbolic art from a transformative era.
Coin Details
Issuer: Ghiyath al-Din Kay Khusraw II (first reign)
Date: AH 640 (AD 1242/3)
Mint: Siwas
Obverse: Lion advancing right with paw raised; star and sun above
Reverse: Sultan’s name and titles in four lines within square, mint and date in margin
Diameter: ~22 mm
Weight: 2.90 g
Material: Ancient silver
What’s Included
Authentic Seljuk silver dirhem set in solid 18k gold prong setting
Matching sterling silver chain (18, 20, or 24 inches)
Optional 14k gold chain upgrade available at checkout
Certificate of authenticity with historical notes
Red velvet presentation box
Polishing cloth and care instructions
Free insured U.S. shipping, worldwide shipping available
The Peregrine Collection
The Peregrine Collection represents the finest of our offerings—rare or historically significant coins, each set in a fully hand-forged 18k gold bezel and paired with a dainty 14k gold chain. Every bezel is shaped, hammered, and polished entirely by hand to follow the natural contours of the ancient coin, ensuring both secure preservation and refined presentation. No two settings are ever alike, making each pendant a singular work of wearable history.
Seljuk Lion & Sun Dirhem Pendant in 18k Gold
$1,150.00
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Testimonials
My four daughters absolutely LOVED them! Your work is excellent and the pendants look great- Thank you!
— Eva S.
Thank you for making this spectacular necklace! I provided the denarius of Julia Domna, and they did the rest. I was delighted with the results - and so (more importantly) was my girlfriend.
— Garrett Ryan from Toldinstone
Got the ring today! Love it!
— Margaret B.
The Athenian Owl pendants are awesome! We're saving the gift for a special occasion. My wife loved it, she got it and was all hushed quiet, that smile while opening and handling it for the first few minutes. It's special.
— Joe E.
OMG the coin. It’s sooo gorgeous. I love it so so so so much. Thank you for keeping me in mind and finding this piece of perfection for me.
— Cecilia A.
Curated Classics. History in Every Piece
FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes — all coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we proudly ship worldwide. Shipping options and times vary by country — you’ll see available methods at checkout.
Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
Absolutely! We love turning personal coins into wearable pieces. Just email us at info@peregrinependants.com to discuss your custom order.
What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us — we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
