1/2 Drachm - 'Ispahbadh of Tabaristan' Khurshid with Farrukhan the Little Arab-Sasanian

Historical Context: This silver 1/2 Drachm, issued by the Dabuyid dynasty Ispahbadh Khurshid between 740-760, represents a critical numismatic bridge. Khurshid, the last independent ruler of Tabaristan, governed a semi-autonomous region resisting direct Arab control during the Umayyad and early Abbasid periods. The coin's inscription referencing "Farrukhan the Little" (likely Farrukhan the Great, Khurshid's grandfather) underscores dynastic legitimacy and continuity amidst significant political upheaval. These issues are vital for understanding Tabaristan's unique cultural and political identity as it navigated the transition from Sasanian to Islamic hegemony.

Artistry: Typifying the Arab-Sasanian stylistic school, this coin merges traditional Sasanian iconography with nascent Islamic epigraphy. The obverse features a stylized bust of Khurshid, often derived from earlier Sasanian prototypes, wearing a distinctive crown. The reverse typically displays a Sasanian fire altar flanked by two attendants, a powerful symbol of Zoroastrian heritage. Crucially, the marginal Kufic legends, often indicating mint and date, signal the gradual influence of Islamic administration, creating a fascinating artistic synthesis reflecting the era's complex cultural landscape.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a broad 24 mm flan, despite its modest 2 gg weight, this 1/2 Drachm often exhibits characteristic strike imperfections. Key high-points for evaluation include the intricate details of Khurshid's crown and facial features on the obverse, and the flames of the fire altar and the attendants' heads on the reverse. Legibility of the Kufic legends is paramount. Common technical issues include off-centering, weak strikes, particularly on the flan edges, and potential die wear, all of which impact overall grade and eye appeal.