How do we respond to the atheist's specious argument, based on the verse: (And they sold him for a low price - a few counted dirhams - and they were in regard to him among those who cared little) to criticize the Qur'an by claiming that the ancient Egyptians did not use dirhams?

It is advised not to delve into specious arguments and refutations of them until one has strengthened their knowledge of religion and faith, in order to protect religion from weak responses and to protect the Muslim from being carried away by specious arguments that may weaken their heart. As for refuting the specious argument regarding the mention of dirhams in the story of Joseph, dirhams were known in the pre-Islamic era (Jahiliyyah), and some metal currencies were in use between the sixteenth and eleventh centuries BCE. Furthermore, the sale of Joseph (peace be upon him) took place between Palestine and Egypt, where dealing in silver pieces was common.