Sasanian Drachm (Khosrow II)

Sasanian Empire (Ancient Persia) · 590-628 AD (Regnal Year 21 visible on reverse, approx. 611 AD)

A thin, broad silver coin featuring a crowned portrait on the obverse and a Zoroastrian fire altar with attendants on the reverse.

Country: Sasanian Empire (Ancient Persia)
Year: 590-628 AD (Regnal Year 21 visible on reverse, approx. 611 AD)
Denomination: 1 Drachm
Metal: Silver (approx. 90-95%)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 22, 2026More sasanian empire (ancient persia) coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$40-$80 in Very Fine, $150-$250 in Mint State

What drives this coin's value

Condition/Grade, strike quality, rarity of the specific mint mark, and presence of any banker marks (tiny counterstamps).

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF). Light wear on highest points of the face and fire altar, good detail in the wings and script.

Mintage & rarity

Common for the series; many millions were produced during Khosrow II's long reign.

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.