I bought this in 2016 and just now opened it. I saw the paper of the coin that I attached to the outside of the mailer and wondered, “why did I buy this?” Then I saw what I paid and figured I was drunk at the time paying that price. And I don’t drink. Period. So I opened the envelope and as soon as I saw the coin, I was in awe. I can’t believe how nice it looks. Well centered, fully struck, no damage, no spotting and no real wear. Almost better than what the US Mint currently produces. Lol And I paid less than half of what it currently is selling for. Now U know why I bought this coin. It’s a beauty! And it’s my only FIRE ALTAR. It’s larger than a modern quarter but much thinner. Sassanian Kings, Hormizd II AD 303-309 AR Drachm, 3.7g; 27 mm, 9h Obverse: Bust of Hormizd II right, wearing eagle crown with korymbos Reverse: Fire altar with ribbon and bust left in flames, flanked by two attendants.
nice one!..i need to get one with the keepers of the eternal fame....haha...you ARE a collecting nut ain't ya?!...
I'm pretty sure the figure of Ahura Mazda in the flames above the altar is giving you an approving 'thumbs up'!
You didn't open it for 6 years!?...I struggle with 6 minutes!...What a stunning coin! Beautiful example...Congrats on finding it..
Here is my Hormazd II (302-309) 28 mm. 3.83 grams. Look at the elaborate crown with eagle's head projecting from the front. Sellwood 27. Karlsson D12, page 101 "Ohrmazd II" #49, Type I, page 43. ex Frank Robinson in 2005.
Well, that's probably the part of the coin that was in contact with the envelope for the past 6 years. So now the question is: do you put it back in the envelope for another 6 years so it can tone more evenly? Personally, I can't imagine waiting another 6 year to look at it again.
It was in a white envelope so not sure that’s it. I looked at the original photos and I can’t tell if it’s old or new toning. And it was and still is in a PVC free flip.
