Lot 143

Ancient India, Kidarites of Gandhara (6th-5th Century BC), Silver Drachm, 3.30 gms, 28.49 mm, Obverse: Bearded bust of king right, wearing ornate crown with central globe flanked by ornamental ribbons, Pahlavi legend at right, naming Varahran, Reverse: Fire altar, with armed attendants standing left and right, although this coin names Varhran, presumably the Kushano-Sasanian king, it is assigned to Kidara because it shows the crown type of Kidara. It would therefore appear that Kidara seized power from Varhran Kushanshah and his first silver coinage continued to name Varhran, while placing Kidara's bust (and crown) on the obverse, a transitional device often used in this region. The reverse legend is still not adequately understood, Göbl Hunnen # 8, fine+, very rare.