1 Cash - Afrig Pendjikent; Samarqand tamgha to the right ND
| Bronze | 1.79 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Principality of Panch (Samarqand Sogd) |
|---|---|
| King | Divashtich "Afrig" (709-722) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 719-722 |
| Value | 1 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (658-722) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 1.79 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-03 |
| Numista | N#197506 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Tamgha of Samarqand to the right of an un-cut hole with an additional tamgha to the left.
Edge
Plain
Comment
There is some uncertainty about the attribution of this coin.This piece was originally attributed by Smirnova as being a posthumous imitation of a Gurak piece from the Ikhshids of Samarqand, reading the legend as 'wr'kk MLK' (King Gurak). However, the tamgha on the reverse does not resemble Gurak's but is identical to Tukaspadak's and Tarkhun's tamghas.
Akhunbabaev later read the legend as 'prykk MLK' (King Afrig), corresponding to Divashtish, a ruler of Pendjikent. And while the coin has a tamgha of Samarqand on the reverse, Divashtish had claim to the title of King of Samarqand from around year 719, even though his claim was not official.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of influences from various cultures. The coin's design incorporates elements from both Islamic and Buddhist traditions, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of the Principality of Panch (Samarqand Sogd) during the 8th century. The presence of the Samarqand tamgha symbol to the right of the Afrig (Pendjikent) inscription suggests a strong influence from the Samarqand region, while the use of Bronze as the material for the coin highlights the importance of trade and commerce in the region during that time.