TYPE Indo-Scythian Kingdom, Azes II (ca. 35 BC - 20 AD), Indian standard billon tetradrachm, 8.30g DESCRIPTION . Obv: King on horseback r., hand raised, monogram right, Greek legend around VASILEOS VASILEOU MEGALOU / AZOU (partial) Rev: Zeus standing l., holding Nike in outstretched arm, , Kharosthi legend "Maharajasa rajarajasa mahatasa / Ayasa" REFERENCE: Mit 2409 var., Bop 239 var. (closest combination of monograms) GRADING: F+, lightly porous toned billon, rare variant ORDER INFO: G3145, $75 Historical evidence regarding Indo-Scythian (or even Indo-Greek, for that matter) rulers is limited, and indeed, much of it comes from numismatics. Even though Indo-Scythian kings are considered to have eliminated the Greco-Baktrian presence in India, their coinage still follows previous traditions and models, and displays correct Greek legends and deities - all at this eastermost reach of Hellenistic influence, and centuries after Alexander the Great's arrival. These kings also have a certain connection with Christian tradition, and some even see in Azes II one of the three "wise men from the East" in the biblical story of Jesus' nativity. Late issue for the reign, apparently found with (among others) tetradrachms of same basic design from subsequent Indo-Parthian rulers in Gandhara (following four lots). Combination of 4 monograms unpublished in Bopearachchi (Smithsonian collection); the top reverse pair is altogether not mentioned there (mainly the extensive Malakand hoard), though it is referenced by Mitchener (#2409).