Baktria Drachm ca. 155–130 BC Menander I Soter - Heroic Bust Type EF+

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Menander I Soter – AR Drachm, ca. 155–130 BC, Indo-Greek Kingdom – Heroic Bust Type

Obverse: Heroic bust of Menander I seen from behind, turned slightly to left, wearing aegis over shoulder and brandishing spear; Greek legend “ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΣΩΤΗΡΟΣ ΜΕΝΑΝΔΡΟΥ” (“of King Menander the Saviour”).

Reverse: Athena Alkidemos standing right, hurling thunderbolt and holding shield; Kharoshthi legend around; monogram in left field.

Historical Context:
Menander I is the most renowned Indo-Greek king, celebrated in both Western and Indian traditions, and often associated with the figure of “Milinda” in the Buddhist text Milindapañha. His coinage is prolific and artistically refined, especially this type featuring the heroic bust — one of the earliest examples in ancient numismatics of a ruler depicted from behind, showcasing dynamism and divine protection through the aegis and spear. The reverse continues the Indo-Greek tradition of bilingualism and the image of Athena Alkidemos, protector of the state.

References:
Bopearachchi 6A; HGC 12, 193;

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