AR Drachm 3.28g. 33mm. Uncertain mint in Baktria

Crowned Sasanian-style bust r.; Brahmi inner legend ('his perfection, Candana, Lord of the Oxus'); Baktrian legend in outer margin ('his perfection, the lord, Commander Sandan, king, the lord'); tamgha countermark and gold plug below bust.

Fire altar flanked by attendants; star and crescent flanking flames; Pahlavi inner legend ('increase,' 'from glory'); Baktrian legend in outer margin citing the Baktrian Khagan (supreme leader).

Vondrovec 244; c/m: Göbl, Dokumente KM 103

Toned.

Some porosity.

This type features three languages - Baktrian, Brahmi, and Pahlavi - which pinpoints its issuance to Baktria.

This issue was formerly cited as originating from the Shahi Turks or Nezak Huns, specifically to the reign of Shahi Tegin (Sri Shahi), but reassessment of the legends by Vondrovec has placed its origin to the north, in Baktria. Similarly, the issuer is now understood to be one named Sandan, of whom little is known, but whose name is attested in both the Baktrian and Brahmi legends. The Brahmi inscription also offers the title 'vakhudevah,' or 'Lord of the Oxus,' further evidencing a Baktrian origin. Later countermarking with dynastic tamgha symbols and the addition of a debased gold plug at the neck of the portrait were likely intended to raise its value.

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