Drachm - Shapur I (type I) (240-272) front Drachm - Shapur I (type I) (240-272) back
Drachm - Shapur I (type I) (240-272) photo
© simoneo80

Drachm - Shapur I type I

 
Billon 4.39 g 29 mm
Description
Issuer
Sasanian Empire (Sasanian Empire (224-651))
Emperor
Shapur I (240-270)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
240-272
Value
Drachm (1⁄12)
Currency
Dinar (224 AD-651 AD)
Composition
Billon
Weight
4.39 g
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#140772
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

The fire-altar (atasdan)is in the form of high column with a capitellum and base. Along the sides of atasdan there are two attendants wearing crowns with globes, with swords by their waists and spears in their hands. The figures stand with their backs to the altar.
Pahlavi legend

Lettering: NWR ' ZY shpwhr

Translation: Fire (fire-temple) of Shapur

Edge

Plain

Comment

Photo: SNS#75 (Type IIc/1b) Style P/c/1

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of King Shapur I on one side and a fire altar on the other, which was a symbol of the Zoroastrian religion that was prevalent in the Sasanian Empire at the time.