Extraordinary Genghis Khan Ring

CNG 85, Lot: 1311. Estimate $10000. Sold for $29000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

ISLAMIC, Mongols. Great Khans. temp. Chingiz (Genghis). AH 602-624 / AD 1206-1227. AR Finger Ring. Solid silver ring, consisting of two Ghazna mint dirhems of Chingiz (Genghis) Khan carefully mounted onto spindle-shaped mounts which are in turn fitted onto ring shank. Coins are displayed tête-bêche, each with the obverse, containing the name of Chingiz (Genghis) visible only. Ring decorated with Central Asian arabesque and scroll work design. Weight: 36.01 g; Ring size: US 8.5; British R. Cf. Nyamaa 2; cf. Album 1967 (both refs. for coin type). Good VF.

The careful manufacture of this ring, including the use of the two Ghazna mint dirhems and their special arrangement in mounting, both of which display the name of the Great Khan, suggests that this piece was an official product and meant for presentation. Both coins (struck from the same die) were selected for their even, well-centered strike, and were skillfully mounted. The ornament of the mounting is similar to other pieces of the area and period, and is finely executed. The placement of the coins in a tête-bêche position – one facing the wearer, one facing the viewer – is unusual and suggests an implied bond between the viewer and the wearer, with the Great Khan as the link. The use of such a ring in ceremonies or in presentation to dignitaries would display the majesty and prestige of the empire, symbolically linking the power of the wearer with the ever-present power of the Great Khan.