Back to hall

Media for this exhibit is not available yet.

PREI · 11.0082

Stater of Kanishka

103 – 125 years
Gold
19 mm
Original

Audio guide

Description

This gold stater was minted during the reign of Kanishka I, one of the rulers of the Kushan Empire. His coins are an important historical source, reflecting religious diversity, political authority, and the flourishing of art. The stater was a high-denomination coin in the ancient monetary system, typically used in large-scale trade transactions. This 19 mm gold coin, through its minting style and epigraphic inscriptions, demonstrates the advanced technical and aesthetic level of Kushan numismatic art. The coin features the portrait of Kanishka, inscriptions, and divine imagery. The stater of Kanishka is an invaluable source for studying the economic system, religious policy, and cultural heritage of the Kushan Empire, providing precious insights into trade routes, currency circulation, and the history of art of that era.