Mongols. Ilkhanids (?). Uncertain, 1256-1335. Fals (Bronze, 18 mm, 2.13 g, 4 h), uncertain mint (in Armenia?). Sun-face in center; around, uncertain legend in Arabic. Rev. Cross in circle; around, in outer margin, uncertain legend in Arabic. Leu Web Auction 11 (2020), 2508. Of the highest rarity, the second known example. About very fine.


The fascinating issue is an unsolved mystery: while the obverse shows a typical Mongol sunface, the reverse features a cross that bears a striking resemblance to the famous medieval Armenian cross, which is often depicted on a Khachkar, a memorial stele.