Sasanian Empire Silver Dirham of Khusrau II (about 1,435-1,400 years ago)

The Khusrau II Sasanian Silver Dirham (AD 591–628) is a powerful silver issue from the final great era of the Sasanian Empire. Certified and encapsulated by NGC, this dirham represents the reign of Khosrow II — known as Parviz, “the Victorious.” Under his rule, Persia reached its greatest territorial extent, briefly reclaiming lands that had long been contested with the Byzantine Empire.

The obverse features the distinctive bust of Khusrau II wearing his elaborate winged crown, one of the most recognizable regalia types in Sasanian coinage. The detailed crown elements and Pahlavi inscriptions proclaim his royal titles and divine authority. The reverse displays the Zoroastrian fire altar flanked by attendants, along with mint and regnal year inscriptions. The sacred flame symbolized divine favor and the central role of Zoroastrianism in state ideology, reinforcing the religious legitimacy of the shahanshah (“King of Kings”).

During his reign, Khusrau II achieved dramatic early victories against the Byzantine Empire, capturing Syria, Egypt, and even reaching the gates of Constantinople. However, the Byzantine emperor Heraclius mounted a stunning counteroffensive that devastated Persian territories. Internal dissent followed, leading to a palace coup and Khusrau’s execution.

Struck at mints across the Persian realm, this silver dirham circulated during one of antiquity’s last great superpower struggles. Within a few years of his death, Arab armies would begin the conquest that ended the Sasanian dynasty.

For collectors, this coin represents Persia’s final imperial blaze — a finely struck silver testament to glory, rivalry, and the dawn of a new era in Near Eastern history.

Note: Coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, not the exact specimen. For grading definitions, please consult NGC’s official standards.