Nabataean Kingdom
Malichos II & Shaqilat II (AD 40–70)
AR Drachm – Petra Mint
A refined silver drachm struck under Malichus II and Queen Shaqilat II, rulers of the wealthy and strategically important Nabataean Kingdom during the mid-1st century AD.
Minted at Petra, the legendary rock-cut capital of Nabataea, this elegant issue beautifully reflects the distinctive artistic and cultural identity of the Arab kingdom that controlled the major caravan routes linking Arabia, the Levant, and the Mediterranean world.
With attractive toning and expressive royal portraits, this drachm is an excellent representation of Nabataean silver coinage at its peak.
🪙 Coin Details
Kingdom: Nabataean Kingdom
Rulers: Malichos II & Shaqilat II
Date: AD 40–70
Mint: Petra
Denomination: Drachm
Material: Silver (AR)
Weight: 3.77 g
Diameter: 13 mm
Condition: About Very Fine
Obverse
Laureate and draped bust of Malichos II facing right, surrounded by Aramaic legend.
The portrait style combines Hellenistic influence with distinctive Nabataean artistic traditions. The ruler’s diadem and drapery emphasize royal authority and dynastic legitimacy.
Reverse
Diademed, veiled, and draped bust of Queen Shaqilat II facing right, with surrounding Aramaic inscription.
The depiction of the queen on Nabataean coinage is particularly significant, highlighting the important political and dynastic role played by royal women within Nabataean society.
🏛 Historical Importance
The Nabataean Kingdom was one of the great commercial powers of the ancient Near East.
Centered around Petra, the Nabataeans controlled lucrative trade routes carrying:
incense,
spices,
perfumes,
and luxury goods
between southern Arabia, Egypt, Syria, and the Roman Empire.
Malichos II ruled during a period of relative prosperity and close interaction with Rome, shortly before Nabataea was annexed into the Roman Empire in AD 106 under Emperor Trajan.
Coins such as this beautifully illustrate the fusion of:
Arab culture,
Hellenistic artistic traditions,
and Roman influence
that defined Nabataean civilization.
⭐ Why This Coin Matters
Authentic silver drachm from Petra
Elegant portraits of king and queen
Aramaic inscriptions
Attractive toning and strong eye appeal
Important caravan-trade kingdom issue
Highly collectible Nabataean silver coinage
A fascinating and historically rich artifact from the legendary kingdom of Petra.