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This bronze medallion, currently on display at the Islamic Civilization Center, is one of the significant historical artifacts from the Ghaznavid period. It bears the name and titles of the dynasty’s ruler, Abu Shuja’ Farrukhzad ibn Mas’ud, along with important information relating to the period.

The medallion was produced in Ghazna, in the historical region of Khurasan, in present-day Afghanistan. It is associated with the Ghaznavid ruler Abu Shuja’ Farrukhzad ibn Mas’ud, who reigned from 1052 to 1059. The date 444 AH, corresponding to 1052–1053 CE, inscribed on the medallion further establishes its connection to this specific historical period.

One of the most remarkable features of the artifact is the Kufic inscriptions on both sides. The obverse bears the ruler’s name and titles:

“Justice / the fortunate amir, the king / supporter of the Caliph of Allah, Abu Shuja’ Farrukhzad / ibn Nasir Din Allah.”

An inscription around the edge states that the medallion was struck in Ghazna in 444 AH. The reverse features the shahada, one of the fundamental declarations of the Islamic faith — “There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” — as well as the name of the Abbasid caliph al-Qa’im bi-Amr Allah. Around the edge is a quotation from verse 33 of Surah At-Tawbah of the Holy Qur’an. In this respect, the artifact brings together inscriptions expressing political authority and religious belief within a unified composition.

The medallion is made of cast bronze and has a gilded surface. Its upper section bears an ancient perforation and traces of a suspension loop. This is an important indication that, at some point, it may also have been used as an object intended to be hung or worn. Over centuries of preservation, signs of wear and corrosion have also developed on its surface. These traces reflect the artifact’s long and complex historical journey.

Measuring just 7.4 centimeters in diameter, the medallion contains a remarkable amount of historical information for its size. It includes:

— the ruler’s name and titles;
— information relating to the Ghaznavid period;
— the date 444 AH;
— the name of the city of Ghazna;
— the name of the Abbasid caliph;
— the shahada;
— a verse from the Qur’an.

Artifacts of this kind are therefore significant not only as examples of material culture, but also as important sources for studying the political history, religious life, epigraphy, and art of their period.

Today, this rare medallion from the Ghaznavid period is on display at the Islamic Civilization Center. The name of a ruler inscribed on metal centuries ago now speaks once again through the language of history in the museum’s exhibition. This 7.4-centimeter medallion is far more than an ordinary object. It embodies the historical memory of Ghazna, the Ghaznavids, traditions of rulership, and the spiritual world of that era.