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Ahin Posh: Coin of Kaniska
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Ahin Posh: Coin of Kaniska
PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Orakzai; circa 129–160; Gold; Diameter: 20 mm; British Museum, London, United Kingdom
This gold coin from Gandhara was excavated at Ahin Posh in Orakzai, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It was minted during the Kushan period (circa 1st-3rd century). The coin has a diameter of 20 mm with an image of King Kaniska (reigned circa 129-160) on one side and the Buddha on the other. The rim of the coin is decorated with a bead pattern.
King Kaniska is famous in the history of Buddhism for convening the Fourth Buddhist Council. The king wears a crown and has strong facial features with a high nose, deep eyes, and a prominent beard. He stands with the feet apart and holds a staff in his left hand. The Bactrian inscription reads King of Kings |
