Sasanian Empire – Khusro II (591–628 AD) Silver Drachm (AR Drachm) Weight: 3.25 grams  Diameter: 29 mm Mint: LD (Rayy)  Date: Regnal Year 35 = 624/625 AD Reference: Göbl 212  Condition: Fine, lightly clipped and some deposits. Good details, clear mint and date. ________________________________________ Description: This silver drachm, struck under Khusro II (Khosrow II Parviz) in his 35th regnal year, features a finely detailed bust of the king facing right, wearing his distinctive mural crown with frontal crescent, flanked by wings and surmounted by a star-and-crescent — emblems symbolizing divine sanction and royal power in the Sasanian tradition. His elaborate coiffure, trailing ribbons, and richly decorated court garments reflect the height of late Sasanian artistic and numismatic refinement. The obverse margin bears the Pahlavi legend “ʾpd” (apd), meaning “excellent,” a mark of quality or esteem in the Sasanian monetary system. The reverse depicts the Zoroastrian fire altar, the spiritual heart of the empire, with two standing attendants in ceremonial pose. Above the flames is a star and crescent, further emphasizing divine support, while star-in-crescent symbols fill the margin, and a triple border frames the scene. ________________________________________ Historical Background: This coin was minted at Rayy (modern-day Rey, near Tehran), one of the principal cities of the Sasanian Empire and a key administrative and military center in northern Iran. Rayy served as an important mint site, especially during the later Sasanian period, producing high-quality silver drachms that circulated widely across the empire and into neighboring regions. The 35th regnal year of Khusro II corresponds to 624/625 AD, during a crucial phase of his protracted and ultimately disastrous war with the Byzantine Empire. At this point, the Sasanian forces had achieved early victories, capturing key cities including Jerusalem in 614 AD and even reaching the Bosporus. However, the tide was turning. By 624, Byzantine Emperor Heraclius had launched a bold counteroffensive deep into Persian territory — including raids near Rayy itself — signaling the beginning of the end for Khusro’s reign.