A Choice Gold Daric of The Persians, Circa 450-330 BC

After the defeat of King Croesus of Lydia, Asia Minor and its Greek cities fell under Persian control leading to more than two centuries of warfare between the Greeks and Persians. These struggles have become legendary thanks to the ancient historians' accounts of the Spartan defense of Marathon, the Persian sack of Athens, and the final defeat of the Persian fleet at Salamis. Throughout this period the Persians issued a series of gold and silver coins including this gold daric of circa 450-330 BC, the period of Kings Artaxerxes I to Darius III.

This gold daric is a choice example of the Persian coinage of this period, as many of the surviving examples are in poor condition or with portions of the figure off the flan. This is one of the rare examples where the figure of the Great King is all present, in excellent condition and well centered on a symmetrical flan. Certainly a choice example of numismatic art from ancient times and one that is directly associated with these historic events. Obverse: Figure of the Great Persian King wearing crown and long robe. He runs right carrying a bow and spear, a quiver of arrows protruding behind him. Reverse: Irregular punch mark of rectangular form. Dimensions: 17 x 14.5 mm. (0.67 x 0.57"). Weight: 8.32 gm. (0.260 Troy oz.). Metal composition: Nearly pure gold. References: Babelon, pl. 86, 19-21. Grade: Extra Fine. Price US$2,750. Status: Available. Order #C004.

Click Here For How To Order

---

[COINS] [HOME]