Drachm of Mithradates II of Parthia, Rhagai c. 123 - 188

Editor: Here we have a Drachm of Mithradates II of Parthia, likely from Rhagai. The silver is worn, but you can still make out the king's portrait on one side. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Coins are interesting because they become symbols of power and cultural identity. The portrait of Mithradates projects authority and continuity. Have you noticed the figure on the reverse? Editor: Yes, it looks like a seated archer. Curator: Exactly. This archer is a visual shorthand for Parthian military prowess, a deliberate echo of earlier Hellenistic imagery but adapted to a new cultural context. It's fascinating how they consciously used familiar symbols to communicate their power. Editor: So, it’s about using familiar imagery to project a new identity? I never thought about coins in that way. Curator: Precisely! The image becomes a kind of cultural bridge.