Sale: Triton VII, Lot: 608. Estimate $2000.  Closing Date: Monday, 12 January 2004.  Sold For $3500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

SASANIAN KINGS of PERSIA. Hormizd II. 303-309 AD. AV Dinar (7.20 gm). "The Mazda worshipper, the divine Hormizd, the king of kings of Iran and non-Iran who is descended from the gods" in Pahlavi (partially degraded), crowned and cuirassed bust right / "Fire of Hormizd" in Pahlavi (partially degraded), fire altar with attendants and ribbon, bare-headed bust left in flames; pellets flanking flames. Göbl I/1a; Paruck -; Alram 759; MACW -; De Morgan pg. 678, 67. VF, scattered field marks. ($2000)

Very little is known of this ruler, the son of Narse. It is apparent that Narse promoted him to co-ruler, probably to ensure a smooth transition upon the former’s death. The majority of his reign was apparently spent dealing with internal issues, as the historical record shows an increase in agriculture during his reign, as well as the founding of many new settlements throughout the empire.