Iran Uses Crown Jewels as Official Reserve Assets Backing Its Currency

Iran uniquely uses its crown jewels, including historic diamonds, crowns, and thrones, as official reserve assets backing its national currency, the rial. Valued unofficially between $20 billion and $50 billion, these treasures are held by the Central Bank of Iran rather than being mere ceremonial items. Amid ongoing protests, inflation, and sanctions, the rial continues to weaken, highlighting the jewels' role as an unconventional financial safeguard distinct from typical gold or foreign reserves.