Kushan Kingdom c.1st-2nd Centuries AD AE Tetradrachm 'Soter Megas' issue half bust/king on horse

This coin is a Kushan Empire AE tetradrachm, issued during the late 1st century to early 2nd century AD under the ruler known as “Soter Megas” (“Great Savior”), now generally identified as Vima Takto.

Obverse (front): Radiate, diademed half-bust of the king facing right, often holding a scepter or staff

Rays extending from the crown symbolize divine or royal power

Reverse (back): King on horseback riding right, often holding a scepter, whip, or weapon

“BASILEUS BASILEON SOTER MEGAS” (King of Kings, the Great Savior)

Issued during the early expansion of the Kushan Empire, a powerful Central Asian dynasty controlling key Silk Road trade routes

Combines Greek legends with Central Asian/Indian imagery, reflecting a multicultural empire

The horseback reverse emphasizes military strength and nomadic cavalry heritage