Azes II Silver Drachm – Journey of the Magi Era (c. 35 BC – AD 5) – NGC Certified

Own a certified silver drachm of Azes II, Indo-Scythian king of Bactria and Central Asia, struck between 35 BC and AD 5, and authenticated by NGC. This coin connects to one of history’s most enduring stories — the Journey of the Magi — and comes from the era traditionally associated with the birth of Christ.

The Magi, often depicted as wise men from the East, were likely Zoroastrian priests or astrologers — highly respected scholars of their time. Some modern scholars believe the Magi may have been emissaries or subjects of Azes II, whose reign stretched across key sections of the Silk Road, blending Hellenistic, Persian, and Indian influences.

There remains some debate among historians about whether Azes I or Azes II ruled during this critical period, but coins of Azes II are especially prized for their historical and religious associations.

The obverse features the king on horseback, armed with a spear — a potent symbol of authority, military prowess, and nomadic traditions. The reverse shows a standing figure of Zeus, holding a scepter, reinforcing divine favor and legitimacy.

The inscriptions are bilingual, written in Greek on the obverse and Kharosthi script on the reverse — making Azes’ coinage among the earliest bilingual coins ever issued, a testimony to the rich cultural fusion of the time.

Certified by NGC, this silver drachm offers collectors a remarkable and tangible link to the crossroads of East and West at a pivotal moment in world history.