RA Gold - 2011 - 1,000 dram - Artashat: 2200th Anniversary of Founding

RA Gold Commemorative - 42

Obverse: Depicts an ancient coin at its center featuring the head of Tyche, the Greek goddess of fortune, facing right. Surrounding the image is the inscription "ՀԱՅԱՍՏԱՆԻ ՀԱՆՐԱՊԵՏՈՒԹՅՈՒՆ" ("Republic of Armenia") along with the denomination "1000 ԴՐԱՄ" ("1000 dram").

Reverse: Features an ancient coin design with a standing figure, symbolizing the historical significance of Artashat. The inscription below reads "ԱՐՏԱՇԱՏ 2200" ("Artashat 2200"), celebrating the 2200th anniversary of the city's founding. The edge of the coin is adorned with a Greek meander pattern, reflecting the Hellenistic cultural influences of Artashat.

Denomination: 1,000 dram
Metal: Gold 585
Weight: 15.6 g
Diameter: 26 mm
Mintage: 1,000 pcs.
Edge: Plain
Strike Quality: BU (Brilliant Uncirculated)
Designer: Eduard Kurghinyan
Mint: Royal Dutch Mint

Artashat, the fourth capital of Armenia, was founded by King Artashes I in the Ararat Valley at the confluence of the Eraskh and Metsamor rivers. During its peak, the city spanned nearly 3,000 hectares and had a population exceeding 150,000. Known for its international trade and Hellenistic culture, Artashat was a significant center in ancient Armenia. The Artashat Mint produced coins of the Artashesyan Dynasty, reflecting the city's economic importance. Artifacts such as the marble statue of Goddess Astghik and numerous clay statues discovered in Artashat testify to its rich cultural heritage.