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Parthian Empire Mithridates II
Drachm
安息帝國 米特里達梯二世
打蘭
Item number: A208
Year: 123-88 BC
Material: Silver
Size: 20.9 x 19.6 x 2.1 mm
Weight: 4.17 g
Provenance: Coincraft 2016
This coin is a drachm minted by Mithridates II of the ancient Parthian Empire. The drachm was a weight unit in the ancient Greek world, later adopted as a denomination for silver coins, typically weighing around 3.8 grams.
The obverse of the coin features a profile portrait of Mithridates II, King of the Parthian Empire, depicted with a beard and wearing a royal crown. The reverse shows an archer seated on a throne, holding a bow, symbolizing the enthronement of Arsaces I, the founder of the empire. The surrounding Greek inscription reads “ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΝ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ”, meaning “Great Arsaces, King of Kings, the Illustrious”.
Mithridates II reigned as king of the Parthian Empire from 123 BC to 88 BC and is celebrated as one of the greatest rulers in the empire’s history. Under his rule, the empire significantly expanded its territory and influence. He launched numerous military campaigns against the surrounding nomadic tribes, successfully consolidating control over the Iranian Plateau and extending Parthian influence into Mesopotamia.
In addition to military actions, Mithridates II was dedicated to establishing and developing diplomatic relations. He not only established connections with the Roman Republic but also engaged in diplomatic exchanges with the distant Han Dynasty of China. Through these diplomatic and military efforts, Mithridates II not only strengthened the military and political stature of the Parthian Empire but also laid the foundations for its cultural and economic development.