Sale: CNG 76, Lot: 963. Estimate $1500.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 12 September 2007.  Sold For $1700. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

INDIA, Kushan Empire. Huvishka. Circa AD 152-192. AV Dinar (7.91 g, 12h). Mint I (A). 3rd emission. Nimbate, crowned and diademed bust left on clouds, holding mace scepter and sword hilt / FARRO, Hermes-Mercury, wearing winged diadem, standing left, holding flames in outstretched hand, other hand on hilt; tamgha to left. MK 280 (O1/R- [unlisted rev. die]). Good VF. Rare.

Pharo was associated with Khvareno, the Iranian personification of the glory and legitimacy of kings. His winged cap, associating him with Orlagno and his victories, may also associate this god with Hermes-Mercury, the god of treasure. As Hermes, his messages were carried on the wing, while the halo and lotus signify his passage between worlds. As Mercury, his purse indicated the profit resulting from a gloriously legitimate royal rule.