Unknown Æ - Ahurpat (Kesh; within triangle) ND (720-737) front Unknown Æ - Ahurpat (Kesh; within triangle) ND (720-737) back
Unknown Æ - Ahurpat (Kesh; within triangle) ND (720-737) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Unknown Æ - Ahurpat Kesh; within triangle ND

 
Bronze 1.77 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Principality of Kesh (Southern Sogdiana)
King
Ahurpat (720-737)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
720-737
Composition
Bronze
Weight
1.77 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#198060
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Triskeles-like tamgha of Kesh within triangle surrounded by Sogdian legend.

Script: Sogdian

Lettering: rgb'n'k xwb ''gwrpt

Translation: Ahurpat, Ruler of Raghfan

Edge

Plain

Comment

The xwb is often translated to Hwab, equivalent to Lord; however, on most other coins, that word is the shortened form of xwbw, which tends to be translated to a generic Ruler.

What exactly Raghfan is needs confirmation. It could be an area with Kesh, or possibly an area completely separate from Kesh.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Ahurpat, who was a prominent religious figure in ancient Sogdiana. The coin's design is unique in that it depicts Ahurpat within a triangle, which symbolizes the three main religions of the time: Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and Manichaeism. This coin provides valuable insight into the cultural and religious practices of the Principality of Kesh during the 8th century.