kushan-empire-c-127-150-ce-reign-of-kanishka-i-item-2
DenominationDinar
Country / EmpireKushan Empire
Obverse DesignBearded King Kanishka I standing left, head left, wearing helmet and tunic, holding a spear in his left hand, and sacrificing over a small altar with his right hand. Flames often emanate from his shoulders. Bactrian legend around: ÞAO NANO ÞAO KANHÞKI KOÞANO (King of Kings, Kanishka the Kushan).
Reverse DesignDeity Oesho (Shiva) standing left, holding a trident in his right hand and a water pot (or similar attribute) in his left. Bactrian legend: O H Þ O (Oesho).
Historical Context
Kanishka I was a powerful emperor of the Kushan Empire, ruling from approximately 127 CE. His reign marked the zenith of the empire, which stretched across Central Asia and northern India. His coinage is notable for its syncretic religious iconography, featuring a blend of Greek, Iranian, and Indian deities, reflecting the diverse cultural influences within his empire. The Oesho (Shiva) reverse is one of the most common types found on his gold dinars.
