I asked ‘Ā'ishah: How much was the dowry paid by the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him)? She said: His dowry for his wives was twelve Uqiyyahs and one Nashsh

The main point of this Hadīth is that it is recommended to pay a simple dowry, for the best dowry is the least in amount, and the best women are those who cost less charges. This Hadīth also indicates that the Prophet's dowry to his wives was twelve Uqiyyahs and a half. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was the perfect example in terms of traditions and acts of worship. One Uqiyyah comprises forty dirhams. So the whole amount that he paid to his wives were 500 dirhams.

This is contrary to what people do today, exaggerating about dowries. They also boast about what they pay to the woman and her guardians, whether or not the husband is rich, the thing that has lead to delaying marriages.