hfrans » 24-January-2008 8:31pm

I have noticed the questionmark! No such coin of Hormazd II was catalogued by Carter or Cribb. Also the investitur-scene looks different from Hormazd I`s issues where the god (or goddess) deliver a diadem. There is also supposed to be an altar between the two figures.

Mervin » 24-January-2008 10:02pm

Yes, there is a questionmark. I am not sure of the attribution and would welcome your opinion. I don't have Carter or Cribb, attribution based upon bird headdress. Same coin as Mitchiner 1269, though his description differs somewhat from what I think I see.

hfrans » 25-January-2008 12:30am

I got confused for some moments...forget to check the size. I think we could forget Hormazd. This is a coin of Ardeshir (II) Kushanshah (with birdcrown, Cribb 17). Compare #2280 and two more... The investiture-scene shows Ardashir "with the goddess Anahita who offers him the diadem of kingship, but there is no sign of the miniature fire-altar between them" (Cribb).
It´s really a remarkable lot of rare Kushanshah´s you just have uploaded, I´m impressed! Wish I know where to find such sweeties ...

Mervin » 25-January-2008 1:32am

hfrans, thanks. These unusually well-preserved specimens were part of a small group. I was just beginning to look them over at the NY International when a well-known dealer bought the entire group, leaving me only with the four coins that happened to be in my hand at that moment. I will let you know more by email.

Mervin » 25-January-2008 10:10pm

Please move to PRE-ISLAMIC ASIA & NORTH AFRICA » Afganistan / Pakistan Area »
Kushano-Sasanians » Ardeshir (I and II) Kushanshah in Merv and Bactria, ca 240-260
Thanks.

charm » 25-January-2008 10:13pm

Done