Principality of Chach Bronze Coin 4 

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Features:

• Issuer: Principality of Chach
• Ruling Authority: Nirtanak (circa 601-801)
• Type: Standard circulation coin
• Years of Circulation: 601-801
• Composition: Bronze
• Weight: 2.01 g
• Diameter: 19 mm
• Shape: Round (irregular)
• Technique: Hammered
• Demonetized: Yes

Historical Context:

The Principality of Chach, referred to as Chachstan in Persian-Sogdian sources, Shash in Arabic literature, and Shi or Zheshi in Chinese, was an ancient state located in the Tashkent oasis of modern-day Uzbekistan. This area, strategically located in the middle Syr Darya basin, was bounded by the Syr Darya River to the west, the Keles steppe to the north, the Tien Shan mountains to the east, and the Kuramin mountains to the southeast.

Historical Development:

• Early Period:

  • In the first centuries BC, Chach was part of the semi-nomadic state of Kangyu.
  • It gained independence around 262 AD, first mentioned in the Sassanid "Kaaba of Zoroaster" inscription.
  • The initial capital, identified with the Kanka settlement, was located on the Syr Darya River.

• Coinage:

  • Local coin minting began in the 2nd-3rd centuries AD with copper scyphate coins.
  • Obverse: Featured the ruler's head with long curly hair and a diadem, sometimes with a crescent moon.
  • Reverse: Displayed a tamga with a Sogdian legend indicating the name, title, and possession.

• 5th-8th Century Developments:

  • Mid-5th century: Chach became part of the Hephthalite possessions.
  • 6th century: Contested by the Hephthalites and the Turkic Khaganate.
  • Early 7th century: The capital moved to Madinat ash-Shash, then Binket, becoming a cultural and trade hub.
  • Coins from this period often depicted rulers with Turkic facial features and various symbols or tamgas, reflecting Byzantine influence and local dynastic symbols.

Arab Conquest and Coin Evolution:

• With the arrival of the Arabs in Central Asia, Chach coinage began to reflect the styles and forms of the Caliphate, indicating a shift in political and cultural influences.