Description
Indo- Skythians, Azes (c. 58-12BC), Silver Tetradrachm, 8.90grms, Obν. Greek legend ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΝ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΖOY surrounding a Armored Skythian king advancing to right on a horseback, holding elephant goad. Kharoshthi letter to right, Rev. Kharoshti legend Maharajasa Rajarajasa Mahatasa Ayasa [of Great King, King of Kings Azes the Great]) surrounding a Athena who stands to right, holding spear and shield and making benediction gesture with Monogram to left and right, Minted in western Gandhara. ISCH 2, 98T. C, Very Fine+, Very Scarce. Azes I emerged as a dominant Indo-Scythian ruler in north-western India, consolidating power after a period of Indo-Greek fragmentation. His authority was centered in Gandhara and the Indus basin, regions critical for controlling Indo-Central Asian trade routes. Azes is associated with the establishment of the Azes Era, later used in north-western Indian inscriptions, reflecting his political impact. His reign represents the transition from Greek to Scythian dominance in India, marked by military displacement of Indo-Greek rulers and the stabilization of Scythian control. This consolidation later allowed Indo-Parthians and Kushans to inherit a unified north-western Indian power base.
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