Sasanisches Reich. Bahram V (Vahram Gor) AD 420–438. AR Drachm Mint: AY (Khuzistan) (Ohne Mindestpreis)

Sasanian Empire – AR Drachm of Bahram V (Varhran V)
Ruler: Bahram V (Varhran V)
Reign: AD 420–438
Denomination: AR Drachm (Silver)
Mint: AY (Khuzistan)
Weight: 4.04 g
Diameter: 30 mm
References: Mitchiner ACW 957, Göbl SN I/2 (Plate IX/155)

This silver drachm was minted during the reign of Bahram V (Varhran V), who ruled the Sasanian Empire from AD 420 to 438. The obverse features the bust of Bahram V facing right, wearing a distinctive mural crown adorned with a korymbos, set upon a crescent. This imagery symbolizes both his royal authority and divine connection. The accompanying Pahlavi inscription to the right of the bust translates to "The Mazda-worshipping Lord with a peaceful realm, Bahram, King of Kings", a common title emphasizing his divine mandate and legitimacy as ruler.

On the reverse, a fire altar with ribbons is prominently displayed, flanked by two attendants standing reverently. Above the altar, a star and crescent appear on either side of the flames, representing cosmic and divine elements central to Zoroastrian belief. A unique feature of this coin is the bust of Bahram V depicted within the fire altar’s flames, reinforcing his sacred kingship and his role as the protector of the Zoroastrian faith. The mint mark, found to the right of the fire altar, is inscribed in Pahlavi script as "AY", Eran-khwarrah-Shapur, was a Sasanian city located in Khuzistan (southwestern Iran), near modern Ahvaz. It was founded by Shapur I.

Bahram V, also known as Bahram Gor, is one of the most legendary figures in Persian history. His reign is often associated with military success, cultural achievements, and romanticized tales of adventure. He ascended the throne with the backing of the Lakhmids, an Arab vassal state allied with the Sasanian Empire, after the assassination of his father, Yazdegerd I. As a ruler, he waged successful campaigns against the Hephthalites (White Huns), defending the empire’s eastern frontiers. His reign also saw tensions with the Byzantine Empire, though hostilities were ultimately resolved.

Culturally, Bahram V is immortalized in Persian literature and folklore, particularly in Firdausi’s Shahnameh and Nizami’s Haft Paykar. He is famous for his love of hunting, particularly onagers (wild asses), which earned him the epithet "Gor" (meaning onager). His court became a hub for poets, musicians, and scholars, leading to a flourishing of Persian culture. Despite his reputation as a warrior, he was also known for his love of luxury and indulgence, as depicted in many literary traditions.