1 Drachm - Isvaradatta

Historical Context: This silver drachm, dated 242-243 CE, was issued by Isvaradatta, a pivotal usurper who briefly interrupted the established lineage of the Western Satraps. His short reign, primarily known through his coinage, signifies a period of political instability and internal challenges within the Satrap kingdom during the mid-3rd century CE. This coin is thus a crucial artifact, documenting a transient but significant power shift in Western India.

Artistry: The obverse features a Hellenistic-influenced bust of Isvaradatta, facing right, a characteristic style of the Western Satraps. While Greek-derived legends on the obverse had become largely decorative, the portrait maintains classical elegance. The reverse displays the traditional three-arched hill (chaitya), crescent moon, and star. Crucially, the Brahmi legend clearly names the ruler and provides the regnal year, underscoring the shift towards indigenous scripts as the primary epigraphic element.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 13.8 mm silver flan weighing 1.87 grams, high-points for wear include the ruler's hair and nose on the obverse, and the uppermost arches of the chaitya and points of the crescent/star on the reverse. Minor off-centring or flatness is common due to ancient striking methods. A well-struck example exhibits a clear and complete Brahmi legend on the reverse, paramount for identification. Overall preservation of the portrait and symbols determines its numismatic grade.