Obol - Ardashir I (233-238) front Obol - Ardashir I (233-238) back
Obol - Ardashir I (233-238) photo
© The New York Sale

Obol - Ardashir I

 
Silver 0.69 g 14 mm
Description
Issuer
Sasanian Empire (Sasanian Empire (224-651))
Emperor
Ardashir I (224-242)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
233-238
Value
Obol (1⁄72)
Currency
Dinar (224 AD-651 AD)
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.69 g
Diameter
14 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#416470
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fire altar (flames 2) with diadems (type R).

Script: Inscriptional Pahlavi

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Obol coin of Ardashir I from the Sasanian Empire is that it features an image of the king himself on one side, while the other side bears the symbol of the Faravahar, a winged disc that represents the ancient Persian god Ahura Mazda. This coin was minted during Ardashir's reign, which lasted from 233 to 238 AD, and was likely used for everyday transactions throughout the empire. Despite its small size and relatively low weight, the Obol coin played an important role in the economy of the Sasanian Empire, which at its peak was the largest empire the world had ever seen.