Szászánida Birodalom. Shapur I (AD 240-272). AR Drachm Reverse: fire altar with attendants, altar shaft bears two pellets (Nincs minimálár)

SASANIAN KINGS: Shapur I (AD 240-272), Silver Drachm
Weight: 4.26 grams
Diameter: 27 mm
Die Axis: 3h
Mint: Mint III (identified as Hamadan)
Phase: 1b (circa AD 244-252/253)
Reference: SNS type IIc/1a, style G; Sunrise –
Condition: VF (Very Fine), toned, with minor deposits attached
Description:
This silver drachm was struck during the reign of Shapur I, one of the most prominent rulers of the Sasanian Empire, between AD 240-272. The obverse of the coin depicts Shapur I facing right, wearing a diadem and a mural crown with a korymbos (a globe-like ornament) and earflaps, characteristic of Sasanian royal iconography.
The reverse features a fire altar, a sacred Zoroastrian symbol, flanked by two attendants. Both figures wear diadems and mural crowns (Type 3b), reinforcing the religious and royal authority of the Sasanian monarchy. The fire altar shaft bears two pellets, which is a distinguishing feature of this specific phase of coinage.
Historical Context:
Shapur I was the second ruler of the Sasanian Empire, succeeding his father Ardashir I, the empire’s founder. His reign (AD 240-272) marked a period of significant military expansion and consolidation of power. Shapur I is renowned for his campaigns against the Roman Empire, achieving notable victories that solidified Sasanian dominance in the region.
One of his most famous achievements was the capture of the Roman Emperor Valerian in AD 260, an unprecedented event in Roman-Sasanian conflicts. This victory not only boosted Sasanian prestige but also underscored the empire’s military prowess. In addition to his military successes, Shapur I promoted Zoroastrianism as the state religion while fostering a degree of religious tolerance that allowed other faiths to flourish.
The mint identified as Mint III (Hamadan) was an important site for Sasanian coin production during Shapur I’s reign. Coins like this drachm served both as currency and as a means of propaganda, emphasizing the king’s divine authority and his connection to Zoroastrian religious traditions.
This drachm remains a tangible link to the political and religious landscape of the 3rd-century Sasanian Empire, representing the power and legacy of Shapur I.