90, Lot: 154. Estimate $125. Sold for $176. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

SASANIAN KINGS of PERSIA. Ardashir III. 628-630 AD. AR Drachm (32mm, 4.17 gm). ART (Ardashir-Kurrah) mint. Dated year 2 (629 AD). Crowned and cuirassed bust right, ribbon over right shoulder; crescent and ribbon over left, star behind crown, star in crescent before / Fire altar with attendants and ribbon, star and crescent flanking flames. Göbl I/1; Alram 924. Good VF, toned, a few reverse die breaks.

From the Bellaria Collection. Ex Spink Numismatic Circular (September 1981), no. 6103.

Ardashir III was the son of the king Khavad II, and came to the throne while still a minor, aged seven. His reign came to an abrupt end when he was murdered by a powerful general who had been appointed by Khosrau II. Little else is known of his reign.