1 Drachm - Isvaradatta

Historical Context: This 1 Drachm, dated Saka Era 164-165 (242-243 CE), attests to the brief reign of Mahakshatrapa Isvaradatta, a significant interregnum figure in the Western Satrap dynasty. His ephemeral rule interrupted the established Kshatrapa succession, likely during the period of Rudrasena II, marking a period of political instability and potential usurpation within the Western Satrap territories of Gujarat and Malwa. Isvaradatta's rare issues are historically crucial, providing tangible evidence of a distinct, albeit short-lived, claim to paramount authority.

Artistry: Characteristic of mid-3rd century CE Western Satrapan coinage, the artistry of Isvaradatta's drachms adheres to the established stylistic school. The obverse features a right-facing bust of the ruler, often stylized and somewhat crude, accompanied by a degenerate, often illegible, Greek legend. The reverse maintains the traditional Western Satrapan motif: a three-arched hill (chaitya), crescent, and star, encircled by a clear Brahmi legend detailing the ruler's name, titles, and the regnal year. No specific engraver signatures are known for this issuer.

Technical/Grading: For this 1.87g, 13.8mm silver drachm (JA Delhi#472), key grading considerations include the clarity of Isvaradatta's bust on the obverse, particularly facial features and diadem. On the reverse, sharpness of the three-arched hill, crescent, and star are paramount. Critical for numismatic study is the full and distinct rendering of the Brahmi legend, ensuring legibility of the ruler's name and the crucial Saka date. Well-centered strikes, free from planchet defects or significant porosity, are highly prized given common off-centering in this series.