Sasanian King, Shapur II, PB (Lead) Unit, Circa 309-379 AD – RRR

$380.00

- + - +
SKU: S1.6 Categories: ,

Description

Center Asian, Sasanian King, 309-379 AD, Shapur II, PB (Lead) Unit (lead, 16g, 23mm)
Obv:  Draped bust of Shapur II to right, wearing mural crown with korymbos
Rev: Fire altar with ribbons, bust in flames, flanked by two attendants
Ref:  Cf. Göbl Ia/6a; cf. VAUCTIONS eSale #23 Lot 92 Rarity/Choice: Rare, VF (some cleaning scratches  and deposits otherwise, lovely portrait)
Note: The Sasanian Empire, spanning from 224 to 651 AD, was a dominant power in the Near East. Founded by Ardashir I, it replaced the Parthian Empire and reached its zenith under Shapur I. Zoroastrianism was its state religion, and its culture left a lasting mark on Persian identity. The Sasanians engaged in conflicts with the Roman Empire and were known for their intricate art and architecture. The empire’s decline came with the Byzantine-Sasanian Wars, followed by the Arab conquests. Despite its fall, the Sasanian Empire’s influence endured in Persian culture and history. The Sasanian Empire was known for its promotion of Zoroastrianism as the state religion. Shapur II’s reign was marked by numerous military campaigns, including wars against the Roman Empire. He expanded the Sasanian Empire’s territories and strengthened its borders, earning him the title of Shapur the Great. Lead coins from Shapur II’s reign are considered rare due to their limited production, lesser importance in the monetary system, and lower survivability compared to coins made of precious metals.