Coin Overview

Silver drachm of Dārēv (Darayan I) struck between 132 BC and 100 BC.
This altar type II issue reflects the later refinement of Dārēv’s coinage, characterized by clearer symmetry and more defined religious motifs. The composition of the ruler before the sacred fire temple beneath Ahura Mazda embodies the unity of divine blessing and royal authority that defined Persis sovereignty.

Specifications

• Kingdom: Kings of Persis
• King / Ruler: Dārēv (Darios) I | Darayan I
• Year: 132 BC to 100 BC
• Denomination: Drachm
• Composition: Silver
• Weight: 4.23 g
• Diameter: 16.19 mm
• Orientation: 12 h
• Reference: Van’t Haaff 554 altar type II
• Verify NGC Certification

Obverse

• Bearded, diademed bust right.
• Leather helmet smoothly falling down into a neck-piece.
• Diadem lies on the forehead under the curled hair lock.
• Crescent moon on top.

Reverse

• Fire temple.
• Ahura-Mazda above.
• To left, king standing right.
• to right, column surmounted by eagle.