AYYUBID.al-Nasir Yusuf I.(Saladin).(1169-1193).Halab 581AH.Dirham.

Obv : الملك / الناصر صلاح / الدين يوسف بن / ايوب(Al-Malik / Al-Nasir Salah / al-Din Yusuf son of / Ayyub; The King, the Victorious Salah al-Din Yusuf, son of Ayyub).
Arabic inscription in field, enclosed by beaded six pointed star.

Rev : الامام / الناصر لدين / الله امير المؤ / منين(Al-Imam / Al-Nasir Li-Din / Allah Amir al-Mu'minin; The Imam, the Defender of the Faith of God, Commander of the Faithful).
Arabic inscription in field, enclosed by beaded six pointed star.
Album 788.

Condition : The coin is in excellent condition with clear and sharp inscriptions. The patina is a bright, silvery tone, indicating minimal tarnishing, and the surface retains a smooth and well-preserved texture.Good very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 6h

Weight : 2.89 gr
Diameter : 19 mm

Al-Nasir Yusuf I, more famously known as Saladin, was a prominent Muslim leader and military commander during the 12th century, best remembered for his role in the Crusades and his efforts to recapture Jerusalem from the Crusader states. Born in 1137 in Tikrit, modern-day Iraq, Saladin was of Kurdish descent and rose to power in a time of significant conflict between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land.Saladin began his career in the service of the Zengid dynasty under Nur ad-Din, a powerful ruler in Syria. Initially working as a military officer, he gained recognition for his leadership skills and loyalty. Saladin's early military campaigns, particularly in Egypt, marked the beginning of his rise to power. In 1169, he was appointed vizier of Egypt under the Fatimid Caliphate, a Sunni leader in a Shi’a-dominated territory. Saladin consolidated his authority over Egypt and, by 1171, had effectively dismantled the Fatimid Caliphate, restoring the region to Sunni control. This set the stage for his future campaigns and helped solidify his power base.

Saladin is most celebrated for his involvement in the Crusades, particularly the Third Crusade, and his ability to unite much of the Muslim world under his leadership. He was instrumental in organizing and leading a coalition of Muslim forces against the Crusader states in the Levant. In 1187, Saladin achieved one of his greatest victories at the Battle of Hattin, where his forces decisively defeated the Crusaders. This battle led directly to the Muslim reconquest of Jerusalem, a turning point in the Crusades. Saladin’s capture of the city was remarkable not only for its military significance but also for the mercy he showed to the defeated Christian population. Unlike the brutality that marked earlier Crusader conquests, Saladin allowed the Christian inhabitants to leave the city peacefully after paying a ransom, which greatly enhanced his reputation as a chivalrous and just leader.Following the fall of Jerusalem, Saladin faced the combined forces of the Third Crusade, led by notable figures such as King Richard the Lionheart of England, Philip II of France, and Emperor Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire. The conflict between Saladin and Richard became legendary, with both leaders earning respect for their battlefield prowess and diplomatic negotiations. Although the Crusaders managed to reclaim some territories along the coast, including the important city of Acre, they failed to recapture Jerusalem. In 1192, Saladin and Richard negotiated a truce, known as the Treaty of Jaffa, which allowed Christian pilgrims access to Jerusalem while leaving the city under Muslim control.

Saladin's leadership extended beyond his military accomplishments. As a ruler, he worked to strengthen the regions under his control, including Egypt, Syria, and parts of Mesopotamia. He implemented administrative reforms, promoted justice, and encouraged the construction of schools, hospitals, and mosques. Saladin was known for his devoutness, humility, and generosity. He lived a modest lifestyle, even as a powerful ruler, and was deeply committed to the principles of Islam.Saladin passed away in 1193 in Damascus. At the time of his death, he was virtually penniless, having given away most of his wealth in charitable acts. His legacy, however, endured long after his death. Saladin became a symbol of resistance and unity in the Muslim world, revered for his ability to bridge tribal and political divides in order to defend Islam against external threats. He also earned respect in Europe for his chivalry and honor, with chroniclers from both the Islamic and Christian worlds praising his character and leadership.

Saladin's life and career remain subjects of great interest and admiration in both the East and the West. His successful unification of Muslim territories and his defense against the Crusaders have solidified his place as one of the most respected and influential leaders in medieval history. His reputation as a just and magnanimous ruler, even in times of war, continues to inspire admiration across cultural and religious boundaries.