Drachm - Menander I (155 BC - 130 BC) front Drachm - Menander I (155 BC - 130 BC) back
Drachm - Menander I (155 BC - 130 BC) photo
© Rojomano

Drachm - Menander I 155 BC - 130 BC

 
Silver 2.2 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
Indo-Greek Kingdom (India (ancient))
King
Menander I (Μένανδρος ο Δίκαιος) (160 BC - 135 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
155 BC - 130 BC
Value
Drachm (1)
Currency
Drachm (200 BC to 10 AC)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.2 g
Diameter
17 mm
Thickness
1.9 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#287012
Rarity index
87%

Reverse

Seen from in front, Athena Alkidemos standing right, holding aegis on outstretched left arm, hurling thunderbolt with right hand, monogram at right, discontinuous Kharoshthi legend around

Translation: maharajasa tratarasa / menamdrasa

Edge

Plain

Comment

Bilingual currency

Interesting fact

The Drachm coin of Menander I (155 BC - 130 BC) from the Indo-Greek Kingdom is interesting because it features a unique blend of Greek and Indian artistic styles. The obverse of the coin depicts the king's portrait, while the reverse shows a seated Greek goddess, likely Athena, with a distinctly Indian-style lion next to her. This fusion of artistic traditions reflects the cultural exchange and syncretism that occurred during the Indo-Greek period, making the coin a valuable artifact for understanding the history of cross-cultural exchange in the ancient world.