Sasanian Kings, Yazdgird I, AR Drachm, GW (Gurgān) Mint, Circa 399-420 AD

$140.00

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SKU: S1.8 Categories: ,

Description

Central Asian, Sasanian Kings, Yazdgird I, AR Drachm (silver, 4.2g, 27.6mm), GW (Gurgān) Mint, Circa 399-420 AD
Obv:  Bust of Yazdgard I right on floral ornament, wearing mural crown with frontal crescent and korymbos
Rev: Fire altar with ribbons; attendants flanking, crescent-above-pellet-above-crescent to left of flames, crescent-above-pellet to right of flames, mint signature to right
Ref: Göbl type I/1 Rarity/Choice: Common, EF (light marginal weakness otherwise superb strike)
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. Sasanian drachms, including this one, are renowned for their detailed designs and high-quality craftsmanship. They provide valuable historical and artistic insights into the Sasanian Empire’s culture, religion, and administration. Yazdgird I’s reign was marked by both internal and external conflicts. He faced challenges from the Hephthalites in the east and the Romans in the west. Yazdgird I sought to stabilize his empire by reforming administrative policies and strengthening military defenses. The coin’s imagery reflects the religious and royal symbolism of the Sasanian Empire. The mural crown symbolizes Yazdgird I’s royal authority, while the fire altar represents the Zoroastrian faith, emphasizing the king’s role as the protector of the religion.