Parthian Kingdom – Silver Drachm of Gotarzes II (c. AD 44-51)
•Frame : Silver 925 , hand Crafted , ancient style . 
• Certificate of provenance and authenticity included 
• Leather cord included 
Total weight: 9,64g / 22 mm large - 36mm high. 
This silver drachm, minted during the reign of Gotarzes II (circa AD 44-51), reflects the intricate artistry and political significance of Parthian coinage. Gotarzes II was one of the many rulers in Parthia’s long history of dynastic struggles, known for his turbulent reign marked by civil war and Roman intervention.
Description of the Coin
•Obverse:
•Bust of Gotarzes II facing left, wearing a double-banded diadem with a double loop.
•His hair is arranged in three distinct waves, a stylistic feature unique to Parthian rulers.
•The beard, cut into a triangular shape, is an identifying trait in his coinage.
•A spiral torque (royal necklace) is visible, emphasizing his status as a warrior-king.
•The portrait is surrounded by a dotted border, a common element in Parthian numismatic design.
•Reverse:
•Arsakes I, the legendary founder of the Parthian Empire, is depicted seated right on a throne, holding a bow.
•A monogram below the bow, possibly indicating the mint or an official control mark.
•Seven-line Greek inscription reading:
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩ N ΑΡΣΑΚΟ Y EYEP Γ ETOY ΔΙΚΑΙΟ Y ΕΠ I ΦΑ NOY Σ ΦΙΛΕΛΛΗΝΟΣ
(Translation: “King of Kings, Arsakes, the Just, the Benefactor, the Illustrious, Friend of the Greeks”)
•The title “Philhellenos” (“Friend of the Greeks”) reflects lingering Hellenistic influences in the Parthian administration and culture.
Historical Context of Gotarzes II
Gotarzes II ruled Parthia during a particularly chaotic and violent period in the empire’s history. After the death of Vardanes I, he became king but faced opposition from Meherdates, a Roman-backed rival claimant.
•Dynastic Infighting: Gotarzes II eliminated many family members, including his own brothers, to secure the throne. His reign was plagued by civil wars and challenges to his legitimacy.
•Conflict with Rome: In AD 49, the Roman Emperor Claudius supported Meherdates as a puppet king to challenge Gotarzes II. However, Gotarzes defeated Meherdates decisively, ensuring his continued rule.
•Death and Succession: He died in AD 51, either from natural causes or as a result of assassination, and was succeeded by Vologases I, who brought relative stability to the empire.
Significance of This Drachm
This drachm is an excellent representation of Parthian numismatic artistry, blending Greek and Persian influences. The Greek inscription and the depiction of Arsakes I reinforce the Parthian rulers’ efforts to connect themselves to their dynasty’s legendary origins.
Furthermore, Gotarzes II’s coinage reflects the fragmented nature of the Parthian Empire, where rival claimants and foreign interventions constantly reshaped the political landscape. This piece serves as a tangible reminder of the struggles that defined the late Parthian period and the challenges faced by its rulers.
With its fine condition and detailed iconography, this coin is a valuable artifact from one of the most tumultuous eras of Parthian history.