Kingdom of Parthia. Mithradates II, 123-88 BC AR Drachm

Kingdom of Parthia. Mithradates II, 123-88 BC AR Drachm minted at Rhagae. Diademed bust left of Mithradates II/Archer seated right. ICG EF-45.

Parthia, occupying modern Iran and neighbouring lands, was a steadfast enemy of Rome for over 400 years. The usual reverse of her drachms depicts the founder of the dynasty, a chieftain named Arsakes, wearing the traditional helmet, the bashliq, and holding a bow, symbolic of the kingdom's power. The Parthians were excellent horsemen and archers.