© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Drachm - Yazdgard I with Shapur IV - type Ib1/
| Silver | 3.78 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Sasanian Empire (Sasanian Empire (224-651)) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Yazdgerd I (399-420) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 399-420 |
| Value | Drachm (1⁄12) |
| Currency | Dinar (224 AD-651 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.78 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#375683 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Pseudo-legend around / šhpwhry zy lba 'lmn'n mlk' (Shahpur the great king of the Armenians) in Pahlavi bust right, wearing ram's horn crown with ribbons
Edge
Plain
Comment
Appointed king of Sasanian Armenia by his father Yazdgird I in AD 414, Šābuhr IV, ruled that territory with reconciliation and amicable relations with the local nobility. When Yazdgird I was assassinated at Hyrcania in AD 420, Šābuhr rushed to the capital at Ctesiphon to claim the succession. His reign, however, was brief, since he was subsequently murdered by the nobles and priests. As all three specimens appear to have been struck in an ad hoc manner, and perhaps suppressed shortly thereafter (an thus their extreme rarity), this coin may have been struck upon Šābuhr's arrival at Ctesiphon.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of King Yazdgard I on one side and a fire altar on the other, which was a common motif in Sasanian coinage. The fire altar was a symbol of the Zoroastrian religion, which was the dominant religion of the Sasanian Empire. This coin was minted during a time of significant political and religious change in the empire, as King Yazdgard I was known for his efforts to promote Zoroastrianism and suppress other religions.
