Phraates IV Silver Tetradrachm

Historical context — Parthian (Arsacid) Empire

The Arsacid kings issued silver drachms and bronze chalkoi at Ecbatana, Seleucia, Susa, Mithradatkart and Rhagae. Reverse types are remarkably consistent: the seated archer Arsaces.

Frequently asked

What is the Phraates IV Silver Tetradrachm?

Phraates IV defeated Mark Antony's Parthian expedition (36 BCE) and later received the four Roman legionary standards lost at Carrhae back from Augustus (20 BCE) — a diplomatic coup commemorated on Roman coinage. His Seleucia tetradrachms are precisely dated month-by-month. It was struck in 37–2 BCE at Seleucia-on-the-Tigris under Phraates IV.

What metal and weight is it?

Silver, weighing approximately ~14 g.

What designs appear on it?

Obverse: Diademed bust of Phraates IV left, with characteristic 'wart' on the forehead and stylised curls. Reverse: Phraates enthroned receiving palm-frond from Tyche of Seleucia; Greek legend with Seleucid-era date.

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