★ An interesting drachm of Sawshafan, King of Khwarazmia ★

KHWARAZMIA. Drachm (Silver, 26 mm, 2.41 g, 7 h), King Sawshafan, circa 750-760. Draped bust of Sawshafan to right, wearing large and elaborate crown; before head, SY`WRSPN (the name of the king in Sogdian). Rev. Sawshafan on horseback to right, holding reins in his right hand and whip in his left; in field to left, floriate symbol; around, M`RY MLK` SY`WRSPN ('King Sawshafan' in Sogdian). Rtvelazde 48f. Zeimal, p. 262. Attractively toned. Some scratches, otherwise, very fine.

Khwarazmia is a large oasis region in western central Asia and was an important location on the Silk Road. King Sawshafan was one of the last non-Muslim rulers of the region. His royal title - M`RY MLK - had been already used by the Parthians and shows the strong influence that the Parthians and Sasanians had exerted over Khwarazmia.