¼ Unit Drachm Kushan Empire Kanishka I

Description

Offered here is an interesting bronze AE Drachm or ¼ Unit of the Kushan Empire, attributed to the reign of the celebrated Kushan ruler Kanishka I (c. 128–150 AD).

The obverse features the crowned and diademed king standing facing, holding a long spear or sceptre and performing a sacrifice at an altar. A Bactrian legend surrounds the design, identifying the ruler as Kanishka.

The reverse depicts Oado (also rendered Vado), a deity associated with the wind, shown standing and holding a sceptre or spear. This deity is particularly interesting in Kushan numismatics, and this type is noted for showing Oado facing towards the right, with the flowing or streaming hair symbolizing the presence of a strong wind.

The combination of royal portraiture, Bactrian legends, and a deity from the diverse religious world of the Kushan Empire makes this an appealing historical piece for collectors of ancient Indian coins, Kushan coinage, Central Asian history, and ancient religious iconography.