2020-02-13 Thu

The Sasanian Empire was an ancient Iranian Dynasty; this dynasty is known as the Empire of Iranians. This empire is also known as Neo-Persian Empire by historians as it was the last pre-Islamic Persian empire, established in 224 CE by Ardeshir I, son of Papak, a descendant of Sasan.

The name Sasanian is derived from a Persian priest named Sasan, the ancestor of the dynasty. At the beginning of the third century on the son of priest Sasan name Papak revolted against the lawful ruler of Iran, Artabanus IV. Until then the persis had been the vassal of the Parthian empire, but later Papak’s son Ardashir revolted against the Parthian and defeated the last Parthian king in the year 226 CE.

This silver Drachm which weighs around 4.4g was issued by Sasanina king Ardeshir from the mint Ctesiphon. The obverse of this coin depicts Bust of the king Ardashir facing towards right wearing diadem and close-fitting headdress with korymbos and no earflaps. The reverse of this coin depicts a fire altar with diadems, pellets on the altar.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction