Syrian Coins

Syrian Coins: A Reflection of National Identity and Heritage

Are you curious about the Syrian coins or, if you are interested in collecting them? if so, you are in the right place.

In fact, these coins are more than just currency; they are, in essence, artifacts that tell the story of the empires and cultures that have, over time, shaped Syria over millennia.

From the Hellenistic and Roman periods through the Byzantine, Islamic, and modern eras, Syrian coins reflect the artistic and cultural diversity, moreover, these coins are treasured not just as currency but also, as historical artifacts that tell the story of Syria’s past. in addition, In this article, we will talk about the modern coins in Syria

So, let’s dive in and know more.

Modern Syrian coins

Modern Syrian coins are indeed, a fascinating blend of the country’s rich historical legacy and its journey into modernity. Since gaining independence in the mid-20th century, Syria has, consequently, developed a range of coinage that reflects its national identity.

5, 25, 50 piastres
5 piastres (Qirsh) , Copper-Zinc,19 mm, 1979
25 piastres (Qirsh), Copper-Nickel, 20 mm, 1979
50 piastres (Qirsh), Nickel, 23mm, 1968
Qirsh
The reverse side of Qirsh

Moreover, The first modern coins in Syria were introduced after the country gained independence from French colonial rule in 1946.

The new currency unit was the pound (or lira), equivalent to 100 piasters.

Lira the coin of Syria
1 pound(Lira) Nickel plated Steel, 25 mm,1994
2 pounds (Lira), Stainless Steel, 23mm,1996, it shows the Roman Theatre at Bosra

Modern Syrian coins feature a variety of designs that highlight the nation’s historical and cultural landmarks, additionally, other coins feature images of Syria’s rich cultural heritage, such as the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, one of the oldest and most significant mosques in the world, Furthermore, the ancient city of Palmyra, known for its stunning ruins and historical significance

5 pounds
in the upper side of the picture
5 pounds, Nickel plated Steel, 2003
5 pounds, Copper-Nickel,24,5 mm, 1996
on the reverse side, there is Aleppo castle
10 pounds
10 pounds, Copper-Zinc-Nickel, 27,4 mm, 2003
the side shows Palmyra.
10 pounds Syrian coins
10 pounds, Copper-Nickel, 26.4 mm,1996
this side shows Palmyra.
10 lira
the reverse side of the 10 lira
25 pounds Syrian coins
25 pounds, Bi-Metallic: Stainless Steel center, Aluminium-Bronze ring, 25 mm,1996
25 pounds, Bi-Metallic: Copper-Nickel center, Nickel-Brass ring, 25 mm, 2003
this 25 pound shows the Central Bank of Syria and part of Sabaa Bahrat Square
50 pounds Syrian coins
 50 pounds, Nickel plated Steel, 25 mm, 2018
The latest Syrian coin
It features the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Damascus on the reverse

The Role of Coins in the Modern Syrian Economy

In the context of the Syrian economy, coins play a crucial role in daily transactions, particularly for smaller purchases. However, due to economic challenges, including inflation, the value of the Syrian pound has fluctuated significantly, thus, limiting the usage and perceived value of coins.

Nonetheless, due to these economic challenges, the coinage remains a tangible representation of Syrian identity and heritage. Furthermore, for many Syrians, these coins are not just currency, but a link to their nation’s history and a symbol of their enduring culture.

Collecting Modern Syrian Coins

Modern Syrian coins are of great interest to numismatists and collectors due to their historical significance, unique designs, and the stories they tell about Syria’s journey through the 20th and 21st centuries. Furthermore, collectors often seek out coins from significant periods.
In addition, as Syria moves forward, its coins remain a lasting testament to its past and, a marker of its ongoing journey.

For more information about the Syria Culture please get in touch with us today! Alternatively, check out our extensive range of group Syria tours.

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    Josh
    Josh
    2024-06-23
    Lulu was our tour guide in Damascus in October 2022 and she was the best guide we could‘ve hopefully for! We had a tight schedule so we asked to see as much as possible, which she happily obliged to. She has a very interesting background, knowing every last bit of the city, its culture, history and food! She speaks multiple languages, including Japanese (!) and was just a fantastic guide to have. 10/10 would recommend.
    Samantha Echeverria
    Samantha Echeverria
    2024-06-23
    An extraordinary and humbling experience. From start to finish the whole experience was an adventure, learning of the Syrians deep history gives a great insight to their collective strength and dedication to their culture. To walk the same footsteps as mentioned in the Bible and Quran is profound and indescribable. Overall I was incredibly humbled by my experience in Syria. Thank you again for the experience of a lifetime, and I look forward to coming back to Syria soon 🤲🏼
    Per Sommer
    Per Sommer
    2024-05-31
    Jeg rejste tre dage sammen med Tambi i det nordlige Syrien. Det var en uforglemmelig oplevelse. Sammen besøgte vi Homes, Krak de Chevaliers, Maloula, Aleppo, Arward Island og Apamea. Ikke bare er Tambi blevet en god ven, men han har også en kæmpe viden om de steder, som vi besøgte. Et af højdepunkterne var også at være på besøg hos Tambi i hans lejlighed og møde hans kone. Her fik vi te, kager og en god snak om oplevelserne under den lange krige. Jeg kan kun give Tambi mine varmeste anbefalinger.
    Marco Arenas
    Marco Arenas
    2024-05-31
    I was in Syria a few years ago doing a little tour with Ayoub and the experience was amazing, Ayoub and his team were marvelous guides all around the country, making the most of the trip. Their service is amazing. I highly recommend Ayoub because he is reliable and well-organized. I am looking forward to coming back to Syria!
    Junaidi
    Junaidi
    2024-05-21
    I recently had the pleasure of exploring Syria with Tambee as our tour guide, and I can't recommend him highly enough. Tambee’s deep knowledge of Syria's rich history and culture brought every site we visited to life. His passion for the country was evident in the way he shared stories and historical insights, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Tambee’s professionalism and attentiveness were remarkable. He ensured our group felt safe and comfortable at all times, handling all logistics seamlessly. His ability to navigate the complexities of travel in Syria, combined with his warm and friendly demeanor, made our journey both smooth and memorable. What I really love is his knowledge of Islamic History. The way he told me the History of Islam while we are standing on the historical site itself just gave me goosebumps. He can make the history comes to life. In summary, Tambee is an exceptional tour guide whose expertise and dedication significantly enhanced our Syrian adventure. If you're planning a trip to Syria, do yourself a favor and contact Tambee. You won't be disappointed!
    Joel Lara
    Joel Lara
    2024-05-20
    Everything on the tour was amazing. Whatever you need to feel comfortable, they will go out of their way to make sure you feel okay. Tambi was our tour guide and I honestly would not have switched anything about it. He is one of the best tour guides I’ve ever met. Someone that is really passionate about sharing the past, present and future of Syria. You need to book your trip to Syria as soon as possible. There is so much history to be seen in this country. Do yourself a favor and don’t listen to what western media would say about this country. Saying it’s all about terrorism and dangerous, that’s a HUGE lie, go see for yourself how kind and loving those people in Syria are. As for the war in Israel, it feels really safe in Syria. You going there gives people hope for a better future. Visa costs depend on nationality. As a US citizen my Visa was pretty costly 220$. It was WORTH IT!
    Cymbie Lumbao
    Cymbie Lumbao
    2024-05-20
    Syria was definitely on our list of country to visit. It exceeded our expectations! Syrians are the most hospitable and warmest people we have ever met. The history is amazing! Tambee is our tour guide and Tayseer is our driver. They are the best! Tambee is very passionate about his country and their history. We felt really safe and well taken care of. We would definitely visit again. We went in for a tour of Syria and came out with a lifelong Syrian friends! 🙏🏽🇸🇾 thank you for a wonderful experience! Shukran!
    Rahul Mudumba
    Rahul Mudumba
    2024-05-19
    Tambee was fantastic, and made sure I had an incredible trip!
    Filippo Volpato
    Filippo Volpato
    2024-05-18
    Tambee was the most exquisite guide we could have ever wanted. Always attentive, extremely knowledgeable and open to adjust the itinerary based on your interests (expect surprises for you!). Hopefully we will be back to this beautiful country, that Tambee made us fall in love with.
    Michael Van Arragon
    Michael Van Arragon
    2024-05-18
    Ask for Tambee! There is so much to learn about the history and future of our shared humanity in this important and beautiful country. I travelled 10 days across a large part of Syria and wish I could've stayed. Tambee who emphasizes the "intangible" is a talented and enthusiastic story teller with an amazing personal connection to the people and culture. He will help you come away with a big picture appreciation of everything youre seeing and with a specialist's attention to detail; help you deepen your own sense of what is happening today in the region. These are some seriously friendly people- a visit to Syria like this one is so special.
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