Persian Coin - Silver Siglos

History of the Artifact

Experience the grandeur and splendor of the Persian Empire by holding in your hand authentic Persian Silver Coins struck in the mints of the legendary cities of Persepolis and Babylon.

The Achaemenid Empire—the First Persian Empire—is one of the greatest empires of antiquity. From its founding by Cyrus the Great, the Achaemenid dynasty includes such notables as Darius the Great and Xerxes the Great. These silver siglos (Persian for shekel) were likely minted during the reign of Xerxes (486-465 BCE). At that point, Persia was a huge empire that was trying to expand further into modern day Greece. A first attempt by Darius I to invade Greece had failed in 490 BCE with the battle of Marathon. Xerxes, his son, may well have coined this particular coin to hire mercenaries for his own invasion (481-479 BCE). The design, also used on Achaemenid gold coins (darics), shows a running figure, likely a Persian King, with a bow in his right hand. Accordingly, the Greeks referred to these coins as toxotai (archers). The archer is wearing a long, pleated garment, apparently without sleeves so that he has his arms free to shoot. On his head is the crenelated crown (tiara or kitaris) of the Achaemenid kings. In his left hand, he is holding a long lance that is pointing to the ground. The quiver that belongs to the bow is slung over his shoulders. The reverse shows a simple, irregular punch mark.

Hold this precious coin in your hand, and feel the weight of history within your grasp. Transport yourself to an era of majesty and empire, where Persian rulers shaped the course of civilizations and their coins symbolized wealth, power, and cultural heritage.

Unleash your passion for history and own a piece of Persian magnificence with the Persian Siglos Silver Coin. Order now to embark on a journey through time, where the legacy of the Persian Empire comes alive in this shimmering relic of majestic splendor.

All artifacts sold on this page have been carefully examined for authenticity concluding that they are authentic and have been obtained from professional antiquarians who have also examined the artifacts and deemed them authentic. 

How do I know these are original Persian Coins?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your coin will look very similar to the one shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces.  The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Your order will include:

• One authentic Ancient Persian Silver Siglos
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.