Iran-Sasanian 616/7 (year 27) 1 drachm
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The Sasanian Empire rose in place of the failing Parthian Empire, founded by Ardashir I, a king of Persis. Under his son Shapur I, the empire grew to include Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, other parts of Central Asia, and the Gulf Coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Sasanian armies fought for centuries against the Romans, but were only conquered in the end by the Arabs in the 7th century. The official Sasanian religion was Zoroastrianism and sacred fires are depicted on the reverse of most coins.
The specimen shown is a silver drachm of Khurso II. This ruler spent much of his reign leading the Sasanian army on a number of offensive and defensive military operations. The vast number of drachms produced during his rule are probably representative of the large payments made to his armed forces. It is thought that he brought mobile mints with him to keep up with the demand. This coin was struck at NYH (Nemavand).
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 3.84g, silver.
Catalog reference: G-214.
- Gobl, Robert. Sasanian Numismatics. New York: 1971. Sanford J. Durnst.
- Sayles, Wayne G. Ancient Coin Collecting VI - Non-Classical Cultures. Iola, WI, 1999. Krause Publications.
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