Kings of Elymais, Prince A, Late 2nd-early 3rd Century AD, AE Drachm, Susa Mint

$85.00

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SKU: S1.22 Categories: ,

Description

Center Asian, Kings of Elymais, Prince A,  Late 2nd-early 3rd Century AD, AE Drachm (bronze, 3.07g, 14.7mm), Susa Mint
Obv: Diademed bust of Prince A left; hair tuft at back of head; to right, pellet-in-crescent above anchor with single crossbar
Rev: Artemis standing right, drawing bow from quiver and holding bow
Ref: van’t Haaff Type 19.1.1-1A Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (beautiful green patina exhibitng nice details)
Note: The Kings of Elymais ruled a small kingdom in what’s now southwestern Iran, in the Susiana region (modern-day Khuzestan province). Renowned for their unique coinage, their coins often featured distinctive designs. This particular coin, minted in Susa, portrays Prince A. On the obverse, he wears a diadem, symbolizing his royal authority, with his bust shown in profile, a common style of the time. On the reverse, Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth, stands in her typical attire, likely wearing a chiton (tunic) and carrying a quiver slung over her shoulder. The Elymaeans were semi-autonomous within the Parthian Empire, and they minted their own coins. These coins bore heavy Greek and Seleucid influences, showcasing Greek gods and rulers. The choice to depict figures like Artemis reflects the cultural interactions of the time, where Greek deities were adopted into local beliefs.
This coin provides a captivating insight into the intricate blend of cultures and power dynamics in the ancient Near East during the 3rd century AD.