Sasanian Empire Style Silver Drachm (Replica/Souvenir)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Replica) · Unknown; likely a modern souvenir workshop specializing in Middle Eastern archaeological replicas or an artisanal reproduction from a museum gift shop.
Pattern: Sasanian Persian (Shapur I / Shapur II Style)
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Replica)
Maker
Unknown; likely a modern souvenir workshop specializing in Middle Eastern archaeological replicas or an artisanal reproduction from a museum gift shop.
Material
Likely Silver Plate or Low-Grade Silver Alloy. While it mimics a Sterling (.925) or Ancient High-Purity Silver appearance, the surface pitting and color suggest a base metal or 'German Silver' (copper-nickel) composition with a plated finish.
Dimensions
Standard Drachm size: approximately 25mm to 30mm in diameter. Estimated weight: 3 to 4 grams (if following historical drachm weight) or slightly heavier if a modern cast.
Description
This silver-toned piece is an evocative reproduction of an ancient Sasanian Drachm. It depicts the characteristic profile of a Persian King, recognizable by the elaborate korymbos (globe) above the crown and flowing pearls in the beard. The script is an imitation of Pahlavi, the official language of the Sassanid court. While it captures the majestic aesthetic of ancient Iran, its perfectly circular shape and surface texture identify it as a decorative tribute rather than an archaeological find.
Key Features
Crennated crown with solar rays, braided beard with pearls, Middle Persian script, and a 'beaded' border typical of 3rd-7th century Persian numismatics.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate or Low-Grade Silver Alloy. While it mimics a Sterling (.925) or Ancient High-Purity Silver appearance, the surface pitting and color suggest a base metal or 'German Silver' (copper-nickel) composition with a plated finish.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to simulate age. The obverse features a relief bust of a Sasanian King (Shahanshah) wearing a crenellated crown with a korymbos above. Pahlavi script (Middle Persian) borders the circumference. High-relief die-striking with intentional 'pitting' to mimic historical corrosion.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible modern purity hallmarks or maker's marks on the obverse. Most replicas of this type are left unstamped to maintain 'historical accuracy' or are stamped on the reverse (not visible) with '925' if authentic sterling.
Construction Details
Cast or die-struck. Unlike authentic ancient hammer-struck coins which show uneven edges (flans), this piece has a very uniform, perfectly round circumference, which is a hallmark of modern automated manufacturing.
Functional Features
Non-functional; intended for display, as a pocket piece, or as a jewelry component (pendant/mounting).
Handle & Grip Details
None (solid coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
Modern commercial quality. The relief is well-defined, showing good attention to iconographic detail, but lacks the organic character of hand-carved ancient dies.
Authentication Indicators
The 'perfect' circle of the coin is a strong indicator of modern reproduction. Authentic ancient coins were hand-struck on heated blanks, resulting in irregular edges. The surface pitting appears uniform and 'designed' rather than the result of centuries of soil acidity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Iran or the Middle East as heritage souvenirs. The precision of the round edge points to modern factory production rather than an ancient hand-hammered technique.
Era & Period
Modern reproduction of the Sasanian Persian Empire period (c. 224–651 AD).
Age Estimate
Modern (Late 20th century to present). The lack of natural mineralization (crystallization) of the silver indicates a recent production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Second Persian Empire,' a golden age of Iranian culture, art, and Zoroastrianism that rivaled the Roman and Byzantine Empires for over 400 years.
Condition Notes
Very Good (as a replica). Artificial tarnish has been applied to the recesses to enhance the detail. Minimal wear on the high points suggests it has been kept as a collector's item or souvenir rather than circulated.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $20.00 (Souvenir/Replica Value). If it were an authenticated ancient silver drachm in this condition, the value could range from $150.00 to $500.00 depending on the specific ruler and rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use silver dips or harsh abrasives, as this will remove the 'antiquing' in the recesses that provides the visual depth and character of the piece.
Similar Pieces
Authentic Shapur II Silver Drachms (which would have irregular edges and much finer, sharper engraving details) or Mediterranean 'Ancient World' souvenir sets.
Interesting Facts
Sasanian coins were so influential that they formed the basis for early Islamic coinage after the Arab conquests. Authentic versions were often made of very high purity silver (.950+) because the Sasanian kings used their coinage as a primary tool for political propaganda and economic dominance.