Kushan Empire, Huvishka (c.150-180 AD), gold dinar, 'NANAÞAO' (Goddess Nana) type, main mint in Baktria (Balkh?), early phase, Gobl 153, 19.20mm; 7.96g. Obv: Crowned half-length bust of Huvishka, facing left, emerging from clouds, wearing a moustache and heavy sideburns, with a prominent wart on the cheek, loose-fitting tunic with jeweled collar, flames emanating from right shoulder, round helmet with crest ornament, twin-pronged forehead ornament, and a jewelled rim, diadem with triangular tie and double ladder-like ribbons to right, holding mace-sceptre and the hilt of his sword, Bactrian legend ÞAONANOÞAO O-OHÞKI KOÞANO (Huvishka the Kushan, King of Kings) around. Rev: Goddess Nana (Nanashao), nimbate, standing facing, turned right, hair held by diadem at back with ribbons to left and crescent at top, right knee bent as if taking a step, wearing loose fitting robe, holding a wand with horse protome in right hand at waist and bowl in left hand, hooked sword emerging from behind; Bactrian legend NANAÞAO (Nanashao) at left and tamgha in right field, dotted border around.
A well-preserved coin exhibiting bright luster and a superb strike, with very well-defined details and all attributes clearly visible.
Uncirculated, Very rare.
On the reverse appears the goddess Nanashao, the Bactrian form of the Iranian-Mesopotamian deity Nanaia, associated with war, fertility, power, and prosperity. Her inclusion on the coinage exemplifies the Kushan policy of embracing diverse religious traditions within the imperial pantheon, reinforcing the ruler's universal sovereignty and divine legitimacy.
Provenance: P.R. Krishna Collection
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