Ardashir I Sasanian Empire AR Drachm AD 223/4-240 Rev. Fire Altar NGC XF

CVC & Collectables presents this silver drachm of Ardashir I, the founder of the Sasanian Empire, struck between AD 223/4 and 240. Minted at Ctesiphon, the imperial capital, this historically important coin features Ardashir’s right-facing diademed bust and a reverse depicting the sacred fire altar, a central Zoroastrian symbol. Certified XF by NGC, this example displays excellent detail and strong surfaces — a high-grade survivor from the dawn of Sasanian imperial power. Coin Highlights: Issuer: Ardashir I, founder of the Sasanian Empire Reign: AD 223/4–240 Denomination: AR Drachm Mint: Ctesiphon Weight: 4.05 grams Metal: Silver Grade: NGC XF Reference: Sunrise 713; Göbl I/1; MACW 871 Obverse: Diademed bust of Ardashir I facing right, wearing a tight-fitting headdress with a korymbos (topknot), no earflaps. Distinctive Sasanian-style portrait with stylized hair and regal profile. Reverse: Central fire altar, flanked by attendants (sometimes off-flan depending on strike). A single pellet appears below, typical of early Ardashir issues. The altar represents Zoroastrian religious authority — integral to the Sasanian state religion and a symbol of divine legitimacy. Collectibility: Coins of Ardashir I are highly sought after due to his role as the first Sasanian emperor and his coins’ stylistic transition from Parthian to Sasanian art. This NGC XF example features: Clear bust detail and bold fire altar design An issue from Ctesiphon, the Sasanian capital Historical importance as a foundational coin of Persian imperial history Embark on a journey through time with ancient coins that span from 400 BC to AD 1055 at Chula Vista Coins. Explore a captivating collection of numismatic treasures that offer glimpses into civilizations long past. Uncover the allure of ancient history through this link: Ancient Coins