Khosrow II, 591-628, Drachm

Khosrow II, Drachm, AR, reign of Khosrow II (591-628 CE), uncertain mint. Weight: 4.33g. The obverse features a detailed bust facing right, adorned with a mural crown detailed with frontal crescent, flanked by two wings, and a star-in-crescent motif. The shoulder is decorated with ribbons and crescents, while stars flank the crown, all enclosed within a double border with star-in-crescents marking the margin at four positions. The reverse depicts a fire altar with ribbons, guarded by two attendants, with a pattern of stars and crescents flanking the flames in a quadruple arrangement. This side is bordered by a triple border, repeating the star-in-crescents in the margin. The strike exhibits crisp and clear details, particularly highlighting the facial features and attire. Cataloged as Gobl type II/3.

This coin belongs to the reign of Khosrow II, a notable Sasanian ruler known for his ambitious and expansionist policies, which significantly influenced the late antique world. His reign marked profound military conflicts, especially with the Byzantine Empire, and cultural developments within the empire, exemplified through the detailed and intricate designs on coinage like this drachm. The iconography symbolizes the king’s divine favor and authority, as well as the religious significance of Zoroastrianism, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Sasanian artistry and statecraft.