Symbolizing the Passage Between Worlds

Sale: CNG 76, Lot: 964. Estimate $2500.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 12 September 2007.  Sold For $3350. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

INDIA, Kushan Empire. Huvishka. Circa AD 152-192. AV Dinar (7.90 g, 12h). Mint II (B). 2nd emission. Crowned and diademed bust left on clouds, holding mace scepter and sword hilt / FARRO, Hermes-Mercury, nimbate and wearing winged petasos, standing facing on lotus, head left, extending hand in benedictional gesture and holding caduceus; tamgha to left. MK 322 (same obv. die as MK 318); CNG 73, 553 (same dies). Good VF. Very rare; only the fifth specimen known and the second to be offered at auction.

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.