Ashaeixsho (Aša Vahišta) – The Best Truth/Righteousness

Triton XXI, Lot: 582. Estimate $4000. Sold for $6000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

INDIA, Kushan Empire. Huvishka. Circa AD 152-192. AV Dinar (21.5mm, 7.92 g, 12h). Subsidiary mint in Gandhara (Peshawar?). Early phase. ÞAOHAHOÞAO O OhÞHI KOÞαHO (sic), nimbate, diademed, and crowned half-length bust left on clouds, holding mace-scepter and filleted spear / αÞαЄIXÞO, Ashaeixsho (Aša Vahišta) standing facing, head left, extending hand in benediction and holding hand on hip; tamgha to left. MK 342/1 (O1/R1); ANS Kushan 769 (same dies); Donum Burns –. Near EF, minor deposits in devices, a few light scratches. Extremely rare reverse type.

Ex Classical Numismatic Group 78 (14 May 2008), lot 1053.

Representing Aša Vahišta (the Best Truth/Righteousness), one of the Ameša Spentas, or “divine sparks” of Ahura Mazda, Ashaeixsho is the embodiment of truth for the souls of the righteous. As a divine intermediary, he could receive prayers intended for Ahura Mazda. Aša Vahišta was often invoked with Vohu Manah (Good Purpose) – Manaobago of the Kushans –, as well as Ātar (Holy Fire), represented in the Kushan pantheon as Athsho.