Lot 2829

Description

Parthia, Kingdom of, Phraataces and Musa, (2 B.C. - 4 A.D.), silver drachm, (3.685 grams), Rhagae mint, obv. head to left with square beard, wearing spiral torque, Nike each side of bust, rev. Queen Musa bust to left, legend around 'Goddess, Urania Musa, Queen', (cf.S.5763, Sellwood 58.10, Shore 325). Surface scratches, otherwise very fine and very rare.

Ex. Thomas Ollive Mabbott Collection, Hans Schulman, New York, June 6-11, 1969 (lot 2983, where it realised $160) and Spink & Son London with its ticket. $$ This issue was struck to commemorate the marriage of Queen Musa, the slave girl, to her son Phraataces, who succeded to the throne after both had murdered his father and her husband. A most important issue which is rarely offered at auction.