Sasanian Kings, Yazdgard II, AE Pashiz, Circa 438-457 AD – RRR

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Description

Central Asian, Sasanian Kings, Yazdgard II, 438-457 AD, AE Pashiz (bronze, 1.3g, 14.1mm)
Obv: Draped bust of Yazdgird II to right, wearing elaborate mural crown; to right, symbol consisting of a globe over a crescent
Rev: Fire altar with two attendants
Ref: Zeno 257637 var Rarity/Choice: Rare, VF (lovely strike, beautiful earthen highlights on dark brwon patina)
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. The imagery on this coin reflects the empire’s religious beliefs and cultural identity. The mural crown worn by Yazdgard II and the depiction of the fire altar are emblematic of Sasanian royal ideology and Zoroastrian rituals. The obverse side of the coin features a draped bust of Yazdgard II facing right. He wears an elaborate mural crown, a distinctive headgear adorned with various symbols and motifs. To the right of the bust is a symbol consisting of a globe over a crescent. This symbol represents the celestial bodies and may have symbolic or religious significance. On the reverse side, there is a depiction of a fire altar flanked by two attendants. The fire altar was a central element of Zoroastrianism, the official religion of the Sasanian Empire. It symbolized the eternal flame representing Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism. The attendants are likely priests or guardians of the sacred fire. This coin provides valuable insight into the art, religion, and politics of the Sasanian Empire during the reign of Yazdgard II. It serves as a tangible link to the past, illustrating the symbols and values that were important to the Sasanian rulers and their subjects.

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