A previously unknown silver tetradrachm of ancient Iran realized a $45,000 hammer price in Classical Numismatic Group’s sale No. 97.

The auction, which closed Sept. 17, featured buyer’s fees of 17.5 to 20 percent, depending on bidding method.

The coin is only the second example known. The tetradrachm was struck in Istakhr (Persepolis) and issued during the early to mid-second-century B.C. by Vadfradad (Autophradates) II, a king of Persis in modern Iran. 

Scholars once believed that the coins of Vadfradad II and a successor (dubbed the Unknown King I) did not include inscriptions. Some poorly preserved, previously published examples seemed to have some remnants of inscriptions on earlier coins, but the research was not conclusive. 

The tetradrachm in the auction is the “first example of its type for this ruler with an almost complete reverse legend,” according to lot description. Other letters following his name are believed to represent the ruler’s title as “governor of the gods,” according to CNG.

The coin is graded Extremely Fine by the auction house. The firm describes the coin as having been struck in high relief.

To learn more about the sale, telephone CNG at 717-390-9194 or visit the firm’s website.

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