Tetradrachm - Phraates IV (Seleucia) (38 BC - 2 BC) front Tetradrachm - Phraates IV (Seleucia) (38 BC - 2 BC) back
Tetradrachm - Phraates IV (Seleucia) (38 BC - 2 BC) photo
© Sam (CC BY)

Tetradrachm - Phraates IV Seleucia 38 BC - 2 BC

 
Silver 12.36 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Parthian Empire (Parthian Empire (247 BC - 224 AD))
King
Phraates IV (38 BC - 2 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
38 BC - 2 BC
Value
Tetradrachm (4)
Currency
Drachm (247 BC-224 AD)
Composition
Silver
Weight
12.36 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#60753
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

King seated right on throne, receiving a palm branch from Tyche holding a cornucopia.

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΝ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΥΕΡΓΕΤΟΥ ΔΙΚΑΙΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ ΦΙΛΕΛΛΗΝΟΣ

Translation: King of kings Arsaces Benefactor Just Illustrious Friend of the Greeks.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Persian influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts a portrait of Phraates IV, while the reverse side features an image of the goddess Athena, reflecting the cultural exchange and fusion that occurred during the Parthian Empire's rule.