Shapur I also celebrated as Shapur the Great was the second ruler of the Sasanian Empire. He was a son of Ardashir I, the founder of the Sasanian dynasty. Today on this day in 240 Ardashir made him his co-ruler and brought him on campaigns to learn the art of war.

Shapur accompanied his father’s campaign against the Parthians. His rule was marked by successful military and political struggle in the Caucasus, against the Kushan Empire in the east, and two wars with the Roman Empire. In 260 he achieved his greatest triumph by defeating the Roman emperor Valerian at Edessa—a landmark in the decline of Rome.

Depicted here is a gold Dinar issued during his reign from Ctesiphon mint. The obverse of a coin depicted the bust of Shapur I facing right, wearing a mural tiara with korymbos and long ear flap, large floriated brooch on left shoulder; single pellet behind. The reverse of a coin has large flaming fire altar flanked by two attendants, both wearing mural crowns and holding scepters, three pellets in inner right field.

Image Source: Google Images