Lot 70: Sasanian Kingdom. Yazgard I. A.D. 399-420. AR drachm. AS (Aspahan) mint. EF, light die rust in obverse fields.

Sasanian Kingdom. Yazgard I. A.D. 399-420. AR drachm (24 mm, 4.23 g, 3 h). AS (Aspahan) mint. Draped bust of Yazdgard I right, wearing crown with korymbos and crescent / Garlanded fire altar between two attendants; degraded Pahlavi legend on central column, mint signature to right of flames. Göbl I/1; Paruck 298; Alram 854. EF, light die rust in obverse fields.

Yazdgard I was an enlightened king, noted for his peaceful nature and religious tolerance. He is often regarded as the “Christian king” among the other Sasanian monarchs, as he was particularly tolerant towards them (even to the point of serving as the president of the Counsel of Christian bishops in Seleukeia in 410). In 408 he made a treaty of peace and friendship with Rome, and the young Roman emperor, Theodosius II, was placed at his court under Yazdgard’s guardianship. Naturally, his strong pro-western stance disaffected many among his eastern nobility, and he was murdered in far off Hyrcania, possibly while in action against the Huns.

[Commentary provided courtesy of Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.]

Donated by: Pars Coins

• Offered By: VAuctions
• Lot #: 70
• Listing #: 182443
• Closed: Thursday, October 7, 2010 7:18:00 PM CT
• Estimate: $150