Lot 2089

Description

Huvishka, (c.A.D. 260-292), gold stater, (7.825 grams), obv. head and upper part of body of king nimbate to left, wearing tall pointed leather helmet and chin-band and a tight-fitting and bejewelled tunic, holding a ribboned spear and a mace in his right hand, legend around, rev. Goddess Ardokcho standing to right, holding cornucopia and short orb staff, behind legend downwards APDOXPO, (Gobl 219, M.3196-7). Test mark on obverse, golden red tone, good very fine and rare.

A similar specimen was in our sale 48 (lot 2248) which realised $1540. The obverse is characteristic of the late part of Huvishka's reign. His portrait shows a refined and urban ruler, accustomed to the luxury of court life. Only the heavy leather helmet, with its protective earflaps, recall the military life of the steppes. The portrait was used as a model by Jahangir for his own coinage nearly 1350 years later.