Amirs of Astarabad

[Sulla80]

Islamic, Persia (Post-Mongol). Amirs of Astarabad (Walids). temp. Amir Wali, AH 757-788 / AD 1356-1386. 6 Dirhams (Silver, 27mm, 4.11g), Astarabad, AH 780 = AD 1378/79. Obv: Mint and date in quatrefoil  / Rev: Shi‘ite kalima in hexafoil; Ref: Zeno 324947; Album 2343.1 Type WD; FItzwilliam Museum CM.574-2002

"The only ruler of this state who struck coinage was Amir Wali who emerged in Astarabad after the fall of the Ilkhans. His coinage is anonymous and can be easily confused with that of the Sarbadars. The Sarbadarids later lost the Damaghan region to Amir Wali during the 760's and he was later suppressed by Timur in 783."

-Agora Auction

Amir Wali was a prominent figure in the late 14th century (AH 780 corresponds roughly to 1378–1379 CE) who played a significant role in the political and military landscape of Iran and Central Asia. He was a local ruler and military commander in the region of Mazandaran, an area located along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in present-day Iran. During this period, the region was characterized by political fragmentation and the presence of various local dynasties and warlords.

Amir Wali is notably recognized for his resistance against the expanding influence of the Timurids, led by Timur (Tamerlane), who was seeking to consolidate power across Persia and Central Asia. Amir Wali’s opposition to Timur's rule made him an important figure in the local resistance, though ultimately, Timur's campaigns were successful in extending his control over the region. Despite Amir Wali’s efforts, he could not withstand Timur’s military might, which led to the eventual subjugation of Mazandaran under Timurid authority.

His resistance is an example of the broader struggles between local rulers and powerful conquerors during this era.  Tensions and shifts in control were common in the history of Persia and surrounding regions during the late medieval period.

For coins of the Timurids see:

https://www.sullacoins.com/post/children-of-tamerlane

Edited October 12, 2024 by Sulla80

[Nerosmyfavorite68]

It's a nice coin and I always enjoy learning about lesser-known aspects of history and numismatics.