The ‘Abbasid Caliphate (750–1258 CE) succeeded the Umayyad Caliphate and established its capital in Baghdad, extending from North Africa to Afghanistan, and was one of the most important Islamic dynasties. Descended from al-‘Abbas, the uncle of Prophet Muhammad, it issued coins that reflected both authority and artistry, serving as a tool for propaganda and commerce. Silver coins were struck at numerous mints, often bearing the names of caliphs, governors, or mint officials.

‘Abbasid coins were a key medium of economic and political expression, featuring gold dinars and silver dirhams with elegant Kufic inscriptions and mint details, as well as copper coins. Tim Wilkes's catalogue of the silver coinage is split into two volumes: Volume 1 covers the first period (AH 132-218) and is arranged by mint. Volume 2 covers the second period (AH 218-334) and is arranged by type - this volume is similar to Bernardi’s book on ‘Abbasid gold coinage, except that it is also by date, not just by mint.

Tim Wilkes is one of the world's leading experts on Islamic coins, and brings his wealth of expert knowledge to this fascinating area of coinage, covering ‘Abbasid silver coinage for the first time in one work.