HISTORY of COINS in AZERBAIJANBack to Main

Imitating Hellenistic Coinage
(4th Century B.C.E.-3rd Century C.E.)

After the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C.E., his empire split apart. Former territories began minting coins, using the silver pieces as templates. Caucasian Albania (North Azerbaijan) and Atropatena (South Azerbaijan) minted coins imitating the Hellenistic currency in order to meet the growing demand and trade. Large quantities of these coins can be found today across ancient Caucasian Albania, the predecessor state of modern Azerbaijan.

Hellenistic drachma

An imitation Hellenistic drachma(obverse) An imitation Hellenistic drachma(reverse)
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COINS and CURRENCY of AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan’s historic coinage reflects the nation's complex political history, from ancient times to the modern day. At the historic crossroads between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the design and format of Azerbaijani coins and currency have been greatly influenced by frequent invasions and political upheaval in the region. Hellenic, Roman, Parthian, Persian, Arabic, Turkic, and Russian influences can be seen throughout nearly 3,000 years of coinage. Today, Azerbaijan’s coinage reflects the diverse history and culture of the country.