Today’s selection is yet another “Dick Bartley’s Now & Then” Specials. Today we are reviewing the 5 Riyals from Saudi Arabia. The first is a 1977 (or 1400 by Hijera date **See Note) issue featuring King Faisal and irrigation canal I the center.

The second or bottom note is 1983 (1404 A.H.) issue 5 Riyals note featuring King Fahd at center and Dhowss (boats) at left. The serial number and a non-visible portrait fluoresces under UV light.

**Hijera (Hijra, Hegira) is the name of the Muslim era (A.H.= Anno Hegirae) dates back to the Christian year 622 when Mohammed “fled” Mecca, escaping to Medina to avoid persecution.