1917-H British Occupation of Egypt 2 Piastres Silver Coin (NGC MS63) Historical & Minting Background： This 1917-H (AH 1335) British Occupation of Egypt 2 Piastres (Pia / Qirsh) silver coin, graded NGC MS63, is a highly classic silver issue set against the backdrop of World War I geopolitical history in the Middle East and the British Empire. Following the outbreak of World War I in 1914, the British Empire officially declared Egypt a British Protectorate, severing nominal Ottoman suzerainty and establishing Sultan Hussein Kamel (1914–1917) on the throne. The "H" mintmark on the coin represents The Mint, Birmingham Ltd. (Heaton Mint), England. Due to surging wartime military expenses and trade demand, British domestic and overseas contract mints produced currency struck in .833 fine silver for Egypt. Highlights: 1. This silver coin merges WW1 Middle Eastern theater history, British Empire overseas protectorate history, and Ottoman-Arabic calligraphic design, making it an essential piece for collectors of both Middle Eastern and British Commonwealth contract coinage. 2. For collectors operating on a budget who still seek certified slabbed Mint State quality, the 2 Piastres has a much lower barrier to entry than the larger 20 Piastres (28 g) of the same year, while MS63 still showcases the excellent minting techniques of the Heaton Mint.