Numismatic

Kingdom of Elymais AE Drachm Phraates (2nd Century AD) Ch VF NGC

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In the second century AD, the ancient Kingdom of Elymais produced a distinctive bronze coinage that offers a fascinating window into its royal court. This particular AE drachm features a detailed portrait of the ruler Phraates on its obverse. The king is depicted facing left, sporting a full beard. His royal attire includes an ornate tiara embellished with a crescent and pellet design, complemented by a diadem and a visible earring. In stark contrast to the detailed portraiture of the obverse, the reverse of this bronze coin is remarkably abstract. It features a series of parallel dashes that stretch across the entire field, a characteristic design element of the region's coinage during this era. This specific ancient piece has been certified as Choice Very Fine, preserving the intriguing artistic choices of a long-past kingdom.