As a minor son of the Great Mithradates, Phraates II began his reign as a co-ruler with his mother, Riinu. The scanty evidence from this period reveals Phraates’ preoccupation with fighting the Seleukids under their king, Antiochus VII, in the west and the Sacae in the east. However, the presence of silver and copper coins from Susa indicate that he began his rule consolidating Parthian hegemony in Elam; a task that had already started in the closing months of his father’s reign. Although successful against the Seleukids (see below), his struggle against the Sacae was a protracted and severe conflict which began favorably but ultimately concluded in his defeat and death.
KINGS of PARTHIA. Phraates II. 132-126 BC. AR Drachm (3.96 gm). Ekbatana mint. Struck circa 128-126 BC. Short-bearded bust left wearing diadem; A behind / ΒΑΣΙ−ΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓ−ΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΘΕΟΠΑΤΟΡΟ[Σ], Arsakes I seated right on omphalos, holding bow. Sellwood 16.3; Shore 43; BMC Parthia pg. 17, 6; BMC Parthia pg. 17, 6; MACW -.
