1 Drachm Yazdegird II imitation; Uncertain Sogdian mint; Southern Sogdiana ND
| Silver | 2.62 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Sogdian mint (Sogdiana) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 650-701 |
| Value | 1 Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.62 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-03 |
| Numista | N#199144 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Fire altar with spear-holding figures on either side.
Edge
Plain
Comment
The prototype for this piece is a Sasanian drachm struck under Yazdegird II (438-457).While at least six examples are known, only one has a reported spot-find, which was in the Kashkadarya Valley. While one find is not sufficient to place an exact location, it is the only reported location, leading to an a tentative attribution to Southern Sogdiana.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it is an imitation of a coin minted by Yazdegird II, a Sassanian king who ruled over much of modern-day Iran, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia from 438 to 457 CE. The fact that it was minted in an uncertain Sogdian mint in Southern Sogdiana suggests that the coin may have been produced by a local ruler or authority who was seeking to emulate the currency of the Sassanian Empire. This imitation coin, made of silver and weighing 2.62 grams, may have been used for local trade and commerce in the region.
