ACHAEMENID PERSIA. Artaxerxes I-Xerxes II (ca. 5th century BC). AV daric (16mm, 8.36 gm). NGC

Description

ACHAEMENID. Artaxerxes I-Xerxes II (ca. 5th century BC)

– **Denomination:** AV Daric
– **Mint:** Sardes
– **Date:** Circa 485-420 BC
– **Diameter:** 16mm
– **Weight:** 8.36 g
– **Condition:** NGC Choice VF 4/5 – 4/5, flan flaw

**Obverse:**
– **Description:** The Persian king or hero is depicted in a kneeling-running stance to the right, wearing a cidaris (a Persian crown) and candys (a type of robe), with a quiver over the shoulder. He holds a transverse spear in his right hand and a bow in his left hand. The drapery extends in an angular form from the left knee to the ground, with the right knee obscured by drapery.

**Reverse:**
– **Description:** Features an irregular rectangular incuse punch.

**Catalog Reference:**
– Carradice Type IIIb, Group A/B
– Sunrise 24

**Additional Information:**
This gold daric, struck at the Sardes mint, is a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of the Achaemenid Empire during the reigns of Artaxerxes I through Xerxes II. The detailed depiction of the Persian king or hero, along with the traditional regalia, highlights the empire’s military and royal iconography.

For further information, please call 212 3191077