ISLAMIC, Arab-Sasanian, Ubayd Allah b. Ziyad, AR Dirham Date: AH 62 (AD 681/2) Mint: BCLA (al-Basra) Reference: Album 12 Obverse: Features a right-facing bust in the traditional Sasanian style, surrounded by Pahlavi (Middle Persian) legends. The margin carries the Arabic phrase "bism Allah" ("In the name of Allah"), reflecting early Islamic adaptation of Sasanian designs. Reverse: Depicts a Zoroastrian fire-altar with two attendants, a motif carried over from Sasanian coinage. The mint mark BCLA (al-Basra) confirms that the coin was produced in Basra, a major Islamic center. Context: Arab-Sasanian coins represent a transitional phase in early Islamic history. After the Muslim conquest of Persia, the Umayyad Caliphate retained Sasanian silver dirham designs, adding minor Islamic elements such as inscriptions, while preserving traditional symbols like the ruler’s bust and fire-altar. This coin was issued under Ubayd Allah b. Ziyad, Umayyad governor of Basra from 674 to 686 AD. Known for his decisive role in the suppression of al-Husayn ibn Ali's revolt, which ended with the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD, Ubayd Allah's actions were pivotal in shaping early Islamic history. Additionally, he played a crucial role in the Umayyad expansion to the east, overseeing military campaigns into Khurasan and Central Asia. His efforts solidified Umayyad control over these regions, laying the groundwork for future conquests and establishing Basra as a key base for eastern expansion. Diameter: 34 mm Weight: 3.94 grams