
Parthian Empire
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AR (Silver) | Drachm | AD 38–46
| | 12h
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Parthian Empire Vardanes I Silver Drachm (AD 38 to 46), Mithradatkart
An authentic silver drachm of the Parthian Empire, issued under Vardanes I between AD 38 and 46. Struck at Mithradatkart, this coin reflects both Parthian dynastic portraiture and the enduring Arsacid archer reverse.
Obverse and Reverse
- Obverse: Bust left with long rectangular beard, nearly straight hair, earring visible, wearing double-banded diadem with double loop, spiral torque, and star over crescent in front; dotted border.
- Reverse: Archer (Arsakes I) seated right on throne, holding bow; monogram below bow; blundered seven-line Greek inscription reduced to meaningless characters.
Quick Facts
- Mint: Mithradatkart
- Date: AD 38 to 46
- Material: AR (Silver)
- Denomination: Drachm
- Weight: 3.51 g
- Diameter: 16.90 mm
- Die Axis: 12h
- Condition: Good VF
- Toning: Coppery tone from higher copper content in the alloy
- References: Sellwood 64.34; Sunrise 415; cf. Shore 354–356; Numista 394555
Historical Significance
Vardanes I ruled briefly in the mid-1st century AD during a turbulent period marked by dynastic disputes. Despite his short reign, his coinage illustrates continuity of the Arsacid dynasty and maintains the enduring imagery of the seated archer, symbolizing legitimacy and tradition.
Collectibility
This drachm is notable for its unusual coppery tone, the result of higher copper content in the alloy, giving it a distinctive appearance. Graded Good VF with strong details, it is an attractive and historically important addition to any collection of Parthian and Near Eastern coinage.
All TerraNumis coins are guaranteed authentic for life, or your money back.
Inventory# PAR-VARD1-AR-DR-001
Authentic ancient coins, guaranteed for life, or your money back