Catalog
| Issuer | Sasanian Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Drachm (1⁄12) |
| Currency | Dinar (224 AD-651 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 4.32 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | 3 o`clock ↑→ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 0242 |
| Reference(s) | Göbl Sasan#III/2, SNS Iran#IIIa/3b |
| Obverse description | Crowned and draped bust of Ardashir I to right; legend along the dotted rim, running anticlockwise from 11 h to 1 h, `mzdysn bgy ʾrthštr MRKAn MRKA ʾyrʾn MNW ctry MN yzdʾn`, i.e. `mazdēsn bay Ardaxšēr šāhān šāh Ērān kē čihr az ya (a)dān` |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering |
(Translation: (`The Mazda-worshipping Lord, Ardashir, King of Kings of the Iranians, whose essence is from the gods` in Pahlavi).) |
| Reverse description | Fire altar; to left and right, `NWRA ZY ˗ ʾrthštr`, i.e. `ādur ī Ardaxšēr` |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering |
(Translation: (`Fire of Ardashir` in Pahlavi).) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
? - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5430073860 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Drachm belongs to Ardashir I, the formidable founder of the Sasanian Empire (c. 224-241 CE). His reign marked a pivotal shift, overthrowing the Arsacid Parthian dynasty and establishing a centralized, expansionist state with Zoroastrianism as its official religion. Type IIIa/3b represents a mature phase of Ardashir's coinage, reflecting the consolidation of his power and the firm establishment of Sasanian iconography.
Artistry: The coin's artistry, typical of early Sasanian numismatics, is characterized by a hieratic and powerful style, departing from Hellenistic influences. While engravers remain anonymous, the design emphasizes royal authority and religious legitimacy. The obverse features a majestic bust of Ardashir I, facing right, adorned with a distinctive crown often incorporating a large globe. The reverse displays the Zoroastrian fire altar, flanked by attendants, symbolizing the state's devotion to Ahura Mazda and the new religious order.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to a standard of 4.32 grams and 25 millimeters, this drachm exemplifies the robust Sasanian monetary system. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of Ardashir's crown and beard on the obverse, and the flames of the fire altar and figures of the attendants on the reverse. A well-struck example exhibits a full flan, strong strike, and clear Pahlavi legends, though slight off-centering or weakness in peripheral areas are common.