Drachm - Sanabares Comprising Sakastan plus Turan until c.160 AD
| Issuer | Indo-Parthian Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 135-160 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
| Currency | Drachm (12 BC-225 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.94 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Thickness | 1.2 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MIG#1151 |
| Obverse description | Diademed bust of bearbed king left, wearing close fitting decorated headress with dotted rays above, with ear pieces and posterior streamers. Behind head Pehlvi legend. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Inscriptional Pahlavi |
| Obverse lettering |
(Translation: SA) |
| Reverse description | Archer seated right: Below bow mint monogram. Legend differing slightly on most coins between forms a. and b. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΒΑΣΙΛΕΥΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕ ΜΕΓΑΣ ΟΣ ΜΕΓ ΣΑΝΑΒΡ ΑΣ ΣΑΝΑΙ ΙΟΥ ηΙ ΒΑΡ Τ |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (135-160) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1599201320 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This drachm belongs to Sanabares, a significant Indo-Parthian ruler who governed from approximately 135 to 160 AD. His reign marks a critical period in the Indo-Parthian Kingdom's history, as he consolidated control over regions including Sakastan (modern Sistan) and parts of Turan. Sanabares was one of the last prominent rulers of this dynasty, contending with the waxing power of the Kushans, and his coinage provides vital numismatic evidence for the scope of Indo-Parthian authority before its eventual decline.
Artistry: The artistry of this coin, while reflecting the broader Indo-Parthian stylistic school, likely comes from an anonymous local engraver. This tradition blended Hellenistic influences, evident in the portraiture, with distinct Parthian iconographic elements. The obverse typically features a stylized bust of Sanabares, often diademed, facing right. The reverse commonly displays the traditional Arsacid motif of a seated archer, sometimes accompanied by Greek legends, demonstrating the enduring cultural synthesis of the Indo-Parthian realm.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this drachm weighs 2.94 grams and measures 19 millimeters, adhering to standard Indo-Parthian specifications. High-points for wear on the obverse include the ruler's diadem, hair, and nose. On the reverse, the archer's bow, head, and drapery would show the earliest attrition. Strike quality varies, often exhibiting off-centering or irregular flan shape, yet the metal purity is generally high, ensuring good preservation of detail when well-struck.