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Coin of Farhad IV, star on crescent symbol

European Museums, The British Museum

Eight-pointed star and a crescent on a silver coin of Farhad IV.

Silver coin of Farhad IV

Parthian Empire

(Iran and modern Iraq), 38-2 B.C.

The Parthian 'King of kings' Farhad (Phraates) IV (38-2 B.C.) is shown wearing a royal headband (diadem). Divine symbols of the moon crescent and star, and an eagle holding a royal headband, indicate the king is the rightful ruler who enjoys divine support.

Silver drachm coin, minted in the Parthian Empire, 38-2 B.C., Sir Charles William Chadwick Oman Collection

Persia

300 B.C. - 651 A.D.

The dynasties of the Parthians and Sasanians ruled over Iran, Iraq and much of Central Asia and Afghanistan from 248 B.C. - 651 A.D. Both the Parthians and the Sasanians used images on their coins that underline the close connection with God claimed by the kings. Kings were seen as God's representatives on earth. For example, the Parthian 'King of kings' often receives a royal headband (diadem) or palm frond as symbol of kingship from a goddess.

Supplementary images:

Eight-pointed star and a crescent on a silver coin of Farhad IV
Taken on  Friday 14th of August 2015
Device: OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.
Model: SP800UZ
Genre:  38-2 B.C.
Source:  London, United Kingdom
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