زكاة الركاز والمعادن
Zakat on found treasure and minerals
One fifth for ancient treasure found, 2.5% for minerals according to the majority.
Calculate my zakat The calculator applies these rules with today’s prices, according to the school you choose.
Found treasure (rikaz)
Rikaz is treasure buried before Islam, recognisable by its markings. One fifth of it is given, with no nisab or year, and the rest belongs to the finder (agreement of the scholars). This fifth goes to the general good of the Muslims, not to the eight categories of zakat, according to the Hanafi, Maliki and Hanbali schools. The later Shafi‘i view limits it to gold and silver, above the nisab.
References Bukhari 1499 and Muslim 1710 (“on rikaz, one fifth”) · al-Mughni 3/48-51
Minerals
- Maliki and Shafi‘i schools: only gold and silver mined, at 2.5% if they reach the nisab, without waiting a year.
- Hanbali school: every mineral of value, oil included, at 2.5% above the nisab; Ibn ‘Uthaymin holds this as a precaution.
- Hanafi school: one fifth of metals that can be melted (gold, silver, iron, copper).
References al-Kafi 1/296; al-Majmu‘ 6/75; Kashshaf al-Qina‘ 2/222
What comes from the sea
Pearls, coral, ambergris and fish are not liable to zakat (agreement of the four schools), unless they are meant for sale: they then count as trade goods.
References Bukhari 1498-1499 · al-Mughni 3/55
Frequently asked questions
I found old coins while digging my garden. What do I owe?
If it is ancient treasure from before Islam, one fifth of its value is due, with no nisab or year. If the object clearly belongs to someone, the rules on lost property apply; also check the law of your country.
A calculation aid, not a religious ruling. If in doubt, ask a qualified person.