Ancient Kingdom of Parthia 70-57 BC Phraates III Silver Drachm Very Fine (VF20)

Ancient Kingdom of Parthia 70-57 BC Phraates III Silver Drachm Very Fine (VF20)

Phraates III ruled the Parthian Empire from roughly 70 to 57 BCE, a period marked by shifting alliances and growing Roman influence in the Near East. He sought to maintain Parthian strength while navigating the ambitions of powerful neighbors, including Pompey during Rome’s eastern campaigns. Phraates III initially engaged in diplomacy with Rome but was careful to protect Parthian interests, particularly in contested regions like what is now known as Armenia. Phraates III was the first Parthian monarch who attempted to restorn the Parthian empire to its former international position after the death of Mithridates II in 91BC, which ultimately took up most of his reign. He was partially successful in his efforts to regain lost lands, such as north Mesopotamia and Adiabene. His reign ultimately ended in betrayal, as he was murdered by his own sons, Mithridates IV and Orodes II. Phraates III was the first Parthian monarch who attempted to restorn the Parthian empire to its former international position after the death of Mithridates II in 91BC.

Obverse: Long-bearded bust of Phraates III wearing a tiara decorated with horns and stags, with prominent antlers around the crest, and a circular border of pellets.
Reverse: A beardless archer wearing a basklyk and a cloak seated on a throne facing right, holding a bow in their right hand, with a monogram below the bow.

Specifications:
Monarch: Phraates II (69BC-57BC)
Composition: Silver
Weight: approx. 3.7 g
Diamater: approx. 21 mm
Mint: Rayy (modern-day Hasanabad, Iran)