GREEK GODS AND GODDESSES ON INDO-SCYTHIAN COINS

The Scythians or Sakas were originally a nomadic people from Central Asia who made their way into Bactria in the second century BCE. It is likely that they were responsible for the burning of Ai-Khanoum in what is now northern Afghanistan around 150 BCE.

Maues was a king of this tribe, who appears to have conquered territory in Kashmir and then acquired control of the area around Taxila in the Punjab. At this point, the Scythians were perhaps not as distinct from the Greeks as might be imagined, as considerable inter-marriage was probably taking place. We also see this inter-mingling of cultures in the fact that most of Maues's coin types follow Greek prototypes. 

   There is a coin telling us that the Indo-Greek king Artemidoros was the son of Maues. Whether or not Artemidoros was Maues' son is still under some debate, and you can find extra information about him by clicking here. 

The date of Maues is still not entirely clear.The traditional dates are c. 90-60 BCE, but Artemidoros is dated to c. 85 BCE, which suggests Maues should be earlier.  
As we have already seen in the pictures, the Greek Gods and Goddesses are prevalent on the Indo- Scythian coins. On the Artemidoros' coin, Artemis, the Goddess of hunting is seen in action, with Her bow stretched. 

Another frequently seen Goddess is Athena, the Goddess of strategy, wisdom and war. She is depicted in the common Greek manner, helmeted and armed. Goddess Nike, with wings is another familiar Greek Goddess. She represents speed and victory in battle.

Also, the famous Greek hero Heracles is depicted with his famous club at hand. Heracles had been well-known in the Indo-Greek kingdoms, and since he is the role model for heroism and virility, he was ideal for depiction on coins.

Zeus, the Leader of the Greek Pantheon is a most frequent depiction on the Indo- Scythian coins. Armed with His thunderbolt, and often holding a sceptre, His image was highly honoured by the mints of the Indo-Scythians.

When we see these coins,as well as the coins of the Kushan Empire afterwards, we  easily understand that the Greek culture and Religion were deeply rooted and respected in the areas of the Indo- Greek Kingdoms.