Drachm of Phraates II

Place of OriginIran, minted in Tambrax (modern Gorgan)

Date138-127 BCE

MediumDie-stamped silver.

ClassificationMetalwork

Credit LineGift of Dennis and Joyce Kapp

Object number

1982.226

Not on View

DescriptionThis silver drachm shows a profile bust of Phraates II facing left on the obverse. On the reverse, an archer is seated on an omphalos, with the inscription “TAM” appearing behind the figure. The coin was minted in Tambrax, a city of ancient Parthia.

Label TextThis silver coin was minted in Tambrax, a city in what is now northeastern Iran, during the reign of Phraates II (138–127 BCE), king of the Parthian Empire. Parthia was a powerful ancient kingdom that arose after the fall of Alexander the Great’s empire, eventually controlling much of modern Iran, Iraq, and surrounding regions. It served as a cultural and political bridge between East and West, often clashing with its Greek-speaking neighbors. Phraates II's reign was marked by intense military activity. He defeated the Seleucid king Antiochus VII, ending Greek attempts to retake eastern territories. At the same time, he faced growing threats from nomadic groups in Central Asia, a conflict that ultimately led to his death in battle.