Catalog
| Issuer | Indo-Sasanian Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 300-303 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 1 Dinar |
| Currency | Drachm (230 AD-360 AD) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 8.01 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Mzdysn bgy ‘whrmzdy RB’ kws’n mlk’ in Pahlavi, bust right, wearing winged crown with ribbons and surmounted by pomegranate / ‘w’ppy [= blundered ‘pzt’] mlk’ ‘whrmzdy in Pahlavi |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Inscriptional Pahlavi |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Ohrmazd, with eagle at feet, standing right, holding smoking censer in right hand and raising left hand in gesture of benediction to Anahita to Anahita enthroned left, holding investiture wreath in raised right hand and scepter in left. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (300-303) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1010715690 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This gold Dinar of Hormizd II (r. 302-309 CE) dates to the early years of his reign, a period of Sasanian imperial consolidation. Its "Indo-Sasanian Kingdom" designation indicates minting in the empire's eastern provinces, likely Sindh or Gandhara. The substantial 8.01g gold weight underscores the economic significance and assertion of Sasanian authority in these frontier regions, reflecting a blend of metropolitan and localized administrative and cultural practices.
Artistry: The coin displays the Sasanian imperial style, adapted by eastern mints. The obverse features a regal bust of Hormizd II, facing right, wearing his distinctive winged crown surmounted by a globe, symbolizing divine sovereignty. The reverse depicts the traditional Sasanian fire altar, flanked by two attendants (magi) upholding the empire's Zoroastrian foundation. The 31mm diameter allows for a grand display of these imperial motifs, often with provincial artistic nuances.
Technical/Grading: The generous 31mm diameter for an 8.01g gold flan indicates a broad, relatively thin strike. High-points for assessment include Hormizd II's winged crown (globe, diadem ties) and facial features; on the reverse, the fire altar's flame and attendants' headdresses are key. Flan preparation is generally wide, but centering can vary. Strike pressure often results in minor softness on high-relief elements, typical for these large, provincial Sasanian gold issues.