INDO-SKYTHIANS, Western Satraps. Isvaradatta, Abhira Intruder, 242-243. Drachm (Silver, 15 mm, 2.14 g), Mint B, SE (Saka Era) 164 = AD 242. Head of Isvaradatta to right, wearing satrapal cap, moustache and earring; behind, date in Brahmi numerals. Rev. RaJno MaHaKsaTraPaSa ISvaRaDaTtaSa VaRse PraThaMe ('Of Raja Mahaksatrapa, Isvaradatta, in the first year' in Brahmi) Three-arched hill; above two crescents, to right sun; below, river. Fishman 24.2. Beautifully toned. Light doubling and with a few minor marks, otherwise, about extremely fine.


Isvaradatta ('Given by God' in Sanskrit) did not belong to the ruling Kardamaka dynasty, and his coins do not mention his patronymic, which is very unusual in the series of the Western Satraps. Thus, A. Fishman regards him as a usurper.