Drachm - Gotarzes I

Historical Context: This silver drachm was issued by Gotarzes I during a tumultuous period for the Parthian Empire, spanning 91 BC to 87 BC. His reign occurred amidst the Parthian "Dark Age," a complex era marked by civil war and multiple claimants to the Arsacidan throne. Gotarzes I was a significant contender, challenging the authority of Mithradates II and later Orodes I. His coinage serves as crucial primary evidence, attesting to his claim of legitimacy and the geographical extent of his influence during this fragmented and internally conflicted period of Parthian history. The issuance of such coinage underscored his assertion of royal power in a highly unstable political landscape.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this drachm, Sellwood#29.1 and Shore#102, reflects the evolving numismatic style of the Parthian Empire, blending Hellenistic traditions with distinct Parthian iconography. The obverse typically features a diademed bust of Gotarzes I, facing left, often depicted with a beard and a specific hairstyle. While moving away from the high realism of earlier Hellenistic portraiture, the portrayal still conveys regal authority. The reverse consistently displays the iconic Parthian motif: the seated archer (representing Arsaces I), holding a bow, usually within a square border. The Greek legends surrounding the archer often include royal epithets, reinforcing Gotarzes I's claim to the throne.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this drachm measures 20 mm in diameter and weighs 4.19 gg, consistent with the standard Parthian weight for the denomination. Key high-points for wear and strike on the obverse include the ruler's diadem, hair, nose, and beard. On the reverse, the archer's head, bow, and knee are typically the highest points. Parthian coinage from this era often exhibits variability in strike quality; issues such as off-centering, particularly affecting the extensive Greek legends, are common. The portrait can range from sharply detailed to somewhat flattened, depending on the die state and the force of the strike, while the reverse archer is generally rendered with less intricate detail than the obverse portrait.