Description
Indo Greek, Menander I (c. 155-130BC), Silver Tetradrachm, 9.80grms, Obv. Greek legend ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΣΩΤΗΡΟΣ/ΜΕΝΑΝΔΡΟΥ surrounding Diademed bust of Menander facing right, Rev. Kharoshtri legend (Maharajasa tratarasa Menamdrasa [of Great King Menander the Savior]) surrounding Athena Promachos standing left brandishing thunderbolt and shield, Monogram on both either sides, Minted in Paropamisadai or Gandhara. Bopearachchi Série 12. Extra Fine+, Very Rare in this quality. Menander I is one of the most renowned Indo-Greek kings, celebrated as a major conqueror. Following the murder of Eukratides I, he rapidly moved into the former Indian territories of the Greco-Bactrian kingdom, consolidating control over Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu. His authority may have extended east to the former Mauryan capital at Pataliputra and south to Mathura. During this period, rival Indo-Greek king Zoilos I appears to have claimed Arachosia and parts of Paropamisadai. Menander is historically significant for his conversion to Buddhism, recorded in the Milinda Panha, where he is depicted in philosophical dialogue with the Buddhist sage Nagasena. Some sources suggest he abdicated in favor of his son and retired as a monk. An alternative tradition records that he died on campaign, with his cities disputing possession of his remains until agreeing to share his ashes, possibly enshrined in stupas across his territories
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