Persia, Achaemenid Empire. Sardes – Time of Darios I to Xerxes I (505-480 BC) – AR 1/6 Siglos. Obv: Persian king or hero, with quiver over shoulder, in kneeling-running stance right, drawing bow. Rev: Incuse rectangular punch. Reference: Carradice Type II Weight: 0.68 g Diameter: 8.5 mm Metal: Silver Rare denomination This quarter siglos was struck during a turbulent period of Persian imperial history from the reign of Xerxes II to Artaxerxes II. Xerxes II reigned only briefly before he was murdered. His successor, Darius II Ochus is said to have been dominated by his wife and induced Sparta to make war on Athens. His son, Artaxerxes II, repelled the mercenary army of his brother as chronicled by Xenophon, and continued to incite conflict between Sparta and Athens as a means of restoring Persian control over western Asia Minor. Considering the period of issue, this coin is likely to have paid Greek mercenaries in Persian service or contributed to the funds placed at the disposal of Sparta for prosecuting the war with Athens. Provenience: ex private collection. See the pictures for more details and correct impression