Sasanian Drachm (Khosrow II)
Country of Origin: Sasanian Empire (Ancient Persia)
Year of Issue: 590-628 AD (Regnal Year 21 visible on reverse, approx. 611 AD)
Denomination: 1 Drachm
Composition: Silver (approx. 90-95%)
Brief Description
A thin, broad silver coin featuring a crowned portrait on the obverse and a Zoroastrian fire altar with attendants on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Khosrow II was the last great Sasanian king. This coinage style influenced Islamic, Byzantine, and Central Asian currencies for centuries after the empire's fall. These coins circulated widely along the Silk Road.
Estimated Value
$40-$80 in Very Fine, $150-$250 in Mint State
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival capsule. Handle by the edges to avoid oils from skin affecting the silver surface.
Mint Mark
DA (Dārabgird) visible on reverse right
Mintage & Rarity
Common for the series; many millions were produced during Khosrow II's long reign.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 3.9-4.1 grams, 30-33 mm
Edge
Plain (irregular thin flan)
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF). Light wear on highest points of the face and fire altar, good detail in the wings and script.
Obverse (Front)
Right-facing bust of King Khosrow II wearing an elaborate winged crown. Surrounded by a double circular border with star-and-crescent motifs at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. Middle Persian (Pahlavi) script mentions the king's name and 'May his glory increase'.
Reverse (Back)
Zoroastrian fire altar (pyre) flanked by two standing attendants holding swords or barsom. Double circular border with four star-and-crescent motifs. Regnal year on left, mint abbreviation on right.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/Grade, strike quality, rarity of the specific mint mark, and presence of any banker marks (tiny counterstamps).
Similar Coins
Arab-Sasanian dirhams, which look nearly identical but include Arabic inscriptions like 'Bismillah' in the margins.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic pieces have a 'clink' sound (ring) when lightly tapped, sharp Pahlavi script, and often show some crystallized silver under magnification. Beware of cast fakes with soft, rounded details and lack of metallic resonance.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Banker marks (tiny stamps applied by merchants) are common and can slightly lower or increase value based on collector preference; APD/GD ('Excellent/Glory') variations in the margin are also notable variations.
Created At: 2026-06-22T18:50:56.312344