Drachm - Hormizd I
| Issuer | Indo-Sasanian Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 256-264 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Drachm (1⁄12) |
| Currency | Drachm (230 AD-360 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.90 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Herfeld#11, Göbl Kushan#1031 |
| Obverse description | Bust of king to right with helmet bending forward and ending in lion`s head. Crest formed by lion`s mane, surmounted by flower-like globe, other at lower edge of helmet; curly hair; point of beard drawn through ring; ear-ring, necklace-bust ends in four curves. Parsik legend beginning at left shoulder. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Same king standing in adoration before Buddha on throne. King in Sasanian loose garment, with sword at left and dagger at right; right hand pointing towards small fire-altar in shape of hour-glass; left hand raised in adoration. God on throne, head and body in profile, knees parted, upper part of body shemms naked;long sceptre in left, rigth hand on arm-rest of throne. Throne seen partly in profile; according to Hellenistic prospective. Above the altar name of mint town. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (256-264) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1807688510 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: Hormizd I's drachm represents a pivotal era for the Indo-Sasanian Kingdom (Kushanshahs), a Sasanian viceroyalty established in former Kushan territories. Issued between 256-264, likely during his tenure as Kushanshah before ascending to the Sasanian throne, this coin signifies the consolidation of Sasanian imperial authority in the eastern provinces. It reflects a period of strategic expansion and the assertion of Zoroastrian Sasanian influence over a diverse region, marking a significant transition from Kushan dominance.
Artistry: The coin's artistry, while anonymous in engraver, belongs to the distinctive Indo-Sasanian stylistic school. It synthesizes established Sasanian royal iconography with adaptations for the eastern mints. The obverse typically features a regal bust of Hormizd I, adorned with a specific crown reflecting his rank, often a transitional design. The reverse consistently depicts the Zoroastrian fire altar, sometimes with attendants, a powerful symbol of Sasanian religious and political legitimacy, though execution can be more provincial than metropolitan issues.
Technical/Grading: This silver drachm, weighing 3.90 gg, exhibits typical Sasanian fabric. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of Hormizd I's crown, the definition of his facial features and beard on the obverse. On the reverse, the flame detail of the fire altar and any attendant figures' crowns are critical. Technical strike qualities often reveal a broad, relatively thin flan. While generally well-struck, minor off-centering or areas of weakness in the legends or periphery are common, reflecting the varied minting practices of the eastern provinces.