Pashiz / Unit / 16 Chalkoi - Ardashir I type II - Parthian style Kulah
| Issuer | Sasanian Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 224-241 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 16 Chalkoi (1⁄36) |
| Currency | Dinar (224 AD-651 AD) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 16.5 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Göbl Sasan#II, SNS Schaaf#9-10-11 |
| Obverse description | A portrait of the king facing right, in Parthian-style headdress (kulah) edged along the borders with tow rows of `pearls`. There is an ornament made of `pearls` on the kulah. The central ornament is a six-pointed star. The hair covered by bashlyk edged with `pearls`, and ribbons with bows flow out from the kulah. Around his neck the King wears a necklace in the form of tow hoops. There is a pointed rim around the picture. Middle Persian (Pahlavi) legend |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering |
mzdysn bgy ` rthstr MLK ` n MLK ` ` yr ` n MNW ctry MN yzd ` n-mazdesn bay Ar-daxsir sahan sah Eran ke cihr az yazdan (Translation: Mazda worshipper, the lord (divine) Ardashir, king of kings of Iran, whose origin is from the gods) |
| Reverse description | A fire-altar (atasdan) in the form of column with a capitellum and base consisting of some plates. Under the capitellum there is a tongue of flame. The capitellum is supported by stands in the form of `lion paws` resting upon censers. The stands are decorated with bows. There is a pointed rim around the picture. Pahlavi legend |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering |
NWR ` ZY ` rthstr-Adur i Ardaxsir (Translation: Fire (fire-altar) of Ardashir) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (224-240) - SNS# 10 (Type IIc/3a Flames 1? 16.04 g.) Group / Mint B (`Hamadan`) - ND (224-240) - SNS# 11 (Type IIc/3a Flames 1? 13.75 g.) Group / Mint B (`Hamadan`) - ND (224-240) - SNS# 9 (Type IIc/3a Flames 1? 16.39 g.) Group / Mint B (`Hamadan`) - ND (224-241) - Göbl# II - |
| Numisquare ID | 1747944520 |
| Additional information |
×
![]()
Historical Context: This Pashiz, dated to 224-241 AD, originates from the nascent Sasanian Empire under its founder, Ardashir I. His reign marked a pivotal moment in ancient history, as he successfully overthrew the long-standing Arsacid Parthian Empire, establishing a new Persian dynasty that would endure for over four centuries. This copper unit, struck early in his rule, symbolizes the transition of power and the consolidation of a centralized state, heavily influenced by Zoroastrianism, laying the groundwork for a formidable empire.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this coin exemplifies the early Sasanian stylistic school, which often blended Parthian numismatic traditions with emerging Sasanian iconography. Ardashir I's Type II portrait features a distinctive Parthian-style Kulah (headdress), a deliberate choice reflecting continuity or a strategic appropriation of established imagery during a period of significant political change. The obverse typically presents the monarch's bust, while the reverse would commonly depict a Zoroastrian fire altar, reinforcing the new state's religious foundation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, this substantial unit weighs 16.5 grams and measures 30 millimeters, making it a significant denomination for local commerce, contrasting with the more common silver drachms. For optimal grading, collectors seek clear definition in Ardashir I's facial features, particularly the nose and Kulah details, along with legible Pahlavi legends. The large flan size often allowed for a more complete strike, though copper issues can exhibit variable strike quality and surface preservation due to their material properties and circulation.