© The New York Sale
© The New York Sale
Obol - Shapur II
| Silver | 0.65 g | - |
| Issuer | Sasanian Empire (Sasanian Empire (224-651)) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Shapur II (309-379) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 320-379 |
| Value | Obol (1⁄72) |
| Currency | Dinar (224 AD-651 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.65 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#417530 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Fire altar with ribbon and bust right in flames, flanked by two attendants, each wearing mural crown with korymbos.
Comment
The Sunrise Collection states "Obols with upward crescents are known, but the style and lack of legends on this piece is significantly different from the published examples."
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Obol coin of Shapur II is that it features a unique blend of Persian and Roman influences in its design. The coin's obverse (front) side features a crowned bust of Shapur II, while the reverse (back) side depicts a stylized representation of the Persian goddess Anahita, who was also revered in the Roman Empire as a symbol of fertility and prosperity. This fusion of cultural motifs reflects the complex cultural exchange and political ties between the Sasanian Empire and the Roman Empire during Shapur II's reign.
