Drachma of Khosrow II

This silver drachm was minted during the reign of Khusrav II (Parviz), one of the longest-ruling and most powerful monarchs of the Sasanian Empire. The drachm was the principal silver denomination in the Sasanian monetary system, widely used in trade and taxation. Measuring 26 mm in diameter, the coin’s metal composition, minting style, and epigraphic inscriptions reflect the technical level and aesthetic taste of Sasanian numismatic art. The obverse depicts Khusrav II in profile with a complex crown, while the reverse shows a fire altar, a significant Zoroastrian symbol. The inscriptions, written in Pahlavi, indicate the ruler’s title and the minting location. The drachm of Khusrav II is an invaluable source for studying the political structure, religious policy, and economic system of the Sasanian Empire, offering precious insights into numismatics, currency circulation, and cultural values of that era.