Iran | 1997 | 1 Rial | Coat of arms

 Iran




The Lion and Sun motif was a prominent emblem of Iran and a feature of its national flag from 1576 to 1979. Originating in 12th-century Iran, it combined ancient Iranian, Near Eastern, and Islamic traditions and was rooted in astrological symbolism, particularly the sun in the zodiac sign of Leo. Over time, its meaning evolved: under the Safavids it gained a Shiʿite interpretation, during the Qajar era it became a national emblem, and in the 19th century it acquired nationalist significance. The motif’s elements were repeatedly modified, including the addition of a crown to symbolize monarchy, while interpretations of the lion and sun shifted between religious, royal, and national meanings. Despite debates and proposals to replace it, the Lion and Sun remained Iran’s official emblem until the 1979 revolution, when it was replaced by the current coat of arms.


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