Drachma of the Sasanian King Shapur I

 

Silver, Diam. 2.45 cm; 3.5 g. Minted at Seleucia ad Tigrim, Found at Dura-Europos, ca. 241–256 CE. Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1938.6000.47. Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery.

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Silver
Minted at Seleucia on the Tigris, found at Dura-Europos, 241–256 CE
Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1938.6000.47
Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery

Together with his father, Shapur conquered the Parthian empire, and he led the assault on Dura-Europos in 256/7 CE. His greatest victory was his defeat and capture of the Roman emperor Valerian at the Battle of Edessa in 259. In this small-scale representation, Shapur’s intense gaze, hooked nose, sinuous moustache, and thick curly hair create a powerful portrait. The reverse of the coin shows a fire-altar flanked by attendants.