Lot of 3 Sasanian Kings – Silver Drachms This lot features three distinct silver drachms from the Sasanian Empire, each representing a different ruler and offering a glimpse into the empire’s rich numismatic and political history. 1. Khusro II (590–628 AD) • Mint: BISh (Bishapur) • Regnal Year: 13 (602/603 AD) • Weight: 4.04 grams • Diameter: 30 mm • Reference: Gobl SN IIIa/3; Mochiri ENIS II – • Obverse: Depicts the bust of Khusro II facing right, wearing a distinctive winged crown with a star and crescent. The outer margin bears the inscription 'APD' (meaning "praise"), • Reverse: Features a fire altar flanked by two attendants, a hallmark of Sasanian coinage symbolizing Zoroastrianism, the state religion. Historical Context: Khusro II, also known as Khusro Parviz, was one of the most powerful Sasanian rulers. His reign was marked by territorial expansion, particularly against the Byzantine Empire, and by lavish displays of royal opulence. Despite his initial successes, his reign ended in political turmoil and assassination following a series of internal revolts and the loss of key territories. 2. Hormazd IV (579–590 AD) • Mint: APL • Regnal Year: 12 (590 AD) • Weight: 3.82 grams • Diameter: 31 mm • Reference: Gobl SN I/1 • Obverse: Bust of Hormazd IV facing right, wearing a crown with a star and crescent. The crown design reflects a continuation of Sasanian royal iconography. • Reverse: Fire altar with two attendants, signifying Zoroastrian religious authority and the divine sanction of the monarchy. Historical Context: Hormazd IV inherited a fragile empire from his father, Khusro I, and faced constant conflict with both the Byzantines and internal nobility. His attempts at administrative and religious reforms made him unpopular, ultimately leading to his overthrow by the usurper Vahran VI, who briefly seized power. 3. Kavad I (Second Reign 499–531 AD) • Mint: Da (Darabjird) • Regnal Year: 13 (500 AD) • Weight: 3.83 grams • Diameter: 28 mm • Reference: Gobl SN II/1v • Obverse: Bust of Kavad I facing right, wearing a domed crown with a crescent, characteristic of early 6th-century Sasanian design. • Reverse: Traditional fire altar with two attendants, reflecting the empire’s religious and cultural foundations in Zoroastrianism. Historical Context: Kavad I's second reign was marked by administrative reforms and military campaigns, including early confrontations with the Byzantines. He is credited with strengthening the Sasanian Empire’s central authority and laying the foundation for his successor, Khusro I. His reign also witnessed the Mazdakite socio-religious movement, which sought land redistribution, though Kavad eventually suppressed it to maintain aristocratic loyalty. Summary: This collection of three silver drachms provides a fascinating insight into the Sasanian Empire’s evolution through the reigns of Khusro II, Hormazd IV, and Kavad I. Each coin reflects the distinct political and religious priorities of its era, making this lot a valuable addition for collectors interested in Late Antiquity and Sasanian numismatics.