PARTHIAN EMPIRE – ORODES II (57–38 BC) – AR DRACHM – KANGAVAR – 3.67 G – NEAR VERY FINE
Orodes II – The Parthian King Who Defeated Rome at Carrhae
An ancient silver drachm issued during the reign of Orodes II (57–38 BC), one of the most historically significant rulers of the Parthian Empire.
His reign witnessed one of the most dramatic military confrontations of antiquity: the defeat of the Roman general Marcus Licinius Crassus at the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC.
This remarkable victory established Parthia as one of Rome’s most formidable rivals and helped shape the political history of the ancient Near East.
Historical Background
Orodes II ruled the Parthian Empire during a period of political rivalry, military expansion, and increasing confrontation with the Roman Republic.
In 53 BC, the Parthian commander Surena led a cavalry army against the Roman forces commanded by Crassus near Carrhae, in modern-day Turkey.
The Parthian army employed highly mobile horse archers and heavily armoured cavalry to devastating effect, inflicting one of the most famous defeats in Roman military history.
Crassus was killed during the campaign, and the Roman defeat became a lasting symbol of Parthian military power.
Orodes II’s reign marked a defining chapter in the long struggle between Rome and the Arsacid dynasty.
Coin Description
Obverse: Draped bust of Orodes II facing left, wearing an elaborate Parthian royal tiara decorated with ornamental patterns. The facial features, royal headdress, and flowing ribbons remain clearly distinguishable.
Reverse: Arsaces seated right, holding a bow, surrounded by a Greek inscription containing the traditional royal titles of the Parthian kings.
The seated archer was one of the most enduring symbols of the Arsacid dynasty, emphasizing royal legitimacy and continuity with the dynasty’s founder.
The Kangavar Mint
Attributed to Kangavar, an ancient settlement in western Iran situated along important routes connecting the Iranian plateau and Mesopotamia.
The region occupied a strategic position within the Parthian kingdom and played a role in the movement of goods, people, and military forces.
Collector’s Appeal
This silver drachm offers collectors a tangible connection to one of the greatest military rivalries of the ancient world.
The coin features a distinctive royal portrait, a recognizable seated archer reverse, and appealing silver-grey surfaces showing evidence of ancient circulation.
An interesting addition to a collection of Parthian, Persian, or Roman Republican history.
Numismatic Details
Empire: Parthian Empire
Ruler: Orodes II
Reign: 57–38 BC
Dynasty: Arsacid
Mint: Kangavar (attributed)
Denomination: AR Drachm
Metal: Silver
Weight: 3.67 g
Obverse: Draped bust of Orodes II left, wearing a decorated royal tiara
Reverse: Seated Arsaces holding a bow, surrounded by Greek royal inscriptions
Condition: Near Very Fine (aVF)
Surface: Silver-grey surfaces with circulation wear and minor marks
Period: 1st century BC
An ancient silver coin from the reign of the Parthian king whose armies delivered one of Rome’s most celebrated defeats.