Coin Overview

Silver drachm of Dārēv (Darayan I) struck between 132 BC and 100 BC.
This altar type II issue demonstrates the refined artistry characteristic of later Persid coinage under Dārēv. The balanced arrangement of the ruler before the sacred fire temple beneath Ahura Mazda reflects the harmony between divine favor and royal power, a recurring theme in the numismatic expression of 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: 4.19 g
• Diameter: 15.07 mm
• Orientation: 12 h
• Reference: Van’t Haaff 554 altar type II

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.