The weekly iAuctions here at Stack’s Bowers are a great source for collectible coins within a reasonable budget! Every month (closing on the first Sunday of the month) these iAuctions will contain World and/or Ancient coins, including some very notable highlights such as this piece. This week we offer an ancient coin from the Parthians, one of the ancient groups of people that inhabited present-day Iran. The Parthians were ruled by various dynasties, including the Achaemenids, Seleucids and the Sassanids. One of the iconic design elements of ancient Iranian coinage is a warrior-king with an archery bow. The Parthian military featured some of the finest archers (who were frequently mounted for increased mobility) and thus were widely feared in the ancient world. The term “Parting shot” developed from the term “Parthian shot” and referred to a group of retreating archers on horseback who would turn and fire at their enemies as they retreated, to devastating effect. This term now refers to a person retreating from an argument and delivering a barb as they walk away.
The obverse for this excellent silver Drachm bears the image of the ruling Parthian King, in this case Artabanos I (also known as Arsakes II). He is wearing the traditional head-piece known as a “Bashlyk”. The reverse of this coin displays a Parthian archer, as mentioned above. It is thought that the archer is also representative of the king’s late father (Arsakes I) who is depicted on a backless throne. In his left hand he holds an archery bow aloft, with an eagle perched just below. This piece is very well centered, with an abundance of luster. Minor areas of golden toning serve to highlight the details of the portrait and archer designs.
Look for this and other numismatic pieces in our upcoming iAuctions. These are held every Monday to Sunday, with world numismatic items being included in the sales that end on the first Sunday of every month. Preview this impressive coin along with the rest of our iAuction items at the Browse Auctions link at www.StacksBowers.com. If you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency to one of our iAuctions (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact a consignment director by calling 800.458.4646.
