Great Cities Collection: Istanbul (Black Box). Founded by Constantine the Great in AD 330, Constantinople was colloquially referred to by its Greek-speaking inhabitants as simply “The City.” Traveling eis tēn polin, or “into The City,” became a name for the place itself: Istinpolin. After the Turkish conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the name had evolved into its current name, Istanbul. Key architectural improvements were made in the city by the sultan Abdul-Hamid I, who reigned from 1774-89.--This is a silver para struck in the name of Abdul-Hamid I.

 

Wholesale inquiries welcome.