Apparently these aren't particularly common. I got 2 from uncleaned lots, and photographed them with one of those old 1930s German double-extension bellows 9x12cm plate cameras. The prototype is from 668 AD or later. These are from the middle east and are probably Arab-Byzantine (Although there is some suggestion that they have Persian script on them). Looks like the guy's head is on fire.
I think I'm more interested in the camera than the coins, are you taking pics on something like this?
chrsmat71, yes. Sometimes one of the Zeiss Ikon types, but in this case it is likely I used a Voigtlaender Bergheil with a Compur shutter and a f4.5 Heliar lens, which is related to the one you've shown. Slightly fancier. That's often my "coin camera".
Very cool and great find. Dumbarton Oaks collection of Arab Byz coins has a piece very similar in style if not dead on. They attribute it to Syria with Palavi or Arabic script. I believe that's the case with this one. These are quite scarce and can get a premium. Love those Arab/Byz coins. Junk boxes and large groups are great sources and all think they are just more junky Byzantines worth nada. Ou contraire mon ami. They can keep you busy, and intrigued for many hours. By the way, you should at least invest in the DO book by Clive Foss: Arab-Byzantine Coins An Introduction, with a Catalogue of the Dumbarton Oaks Collection. Currently on Amazon is a used one for $21.00 or so. I'd suggest this as a good primmer on these fun coins. Also, see Charlie Davis's books by edited by Tony Goodwin, an excellent writer and editor of many papers. Both have great plates and are at $60 and 65 respectively. If you are at all interested, you should purchase them. Earlier definitive works in hard bound are out there, but are limited copies and can be a bit pricey. I lucked out as I purchase them at original issue prices. Happy Hunting....
Thanks Black Friar! So pleased there are other Arab Byzantine coin enthusiasts around. I can't afford the fancier hardcover books, but I have that Clive Foss book and love it. Some of my coins are almost exact matches to some in the book. I appreciate your comments.
Black Friar, The Dumbarton Oaks is a great place to visit. I think that it's a bit under the radar for a Washington DC museum since it is not on the mall.
