Ancient, British and World Coins, Historical Medals and Banknotes

Sassanian, Firuz I (AD 459-484), Stater, Eastern Mint, Bust of King with crown right, reverse fire altar around with Brahmi inscription. Good very fine, very rare (£1200-1500)

Firuz I came to the throne in 459 after two years of Civil War. Hardly had he settled the succession then Iran was hit by a seven year drought & famine. On top of this tribal migrations from Central Asia caused the invasion of Iran by the Hephtalites which culminated in the defeat of capture of Firuz. Unable to pay the ransom demanded, Firuz was obliged to leave his son Kavad as hostage. Over the next decade Firuz rebuilt his shattered army & in 484 attempted to throw out the enemy. This time both both he & his army perished.