ABSTRACT
Ancient Merv is situated in an oasis formed by the delta of the River Murghab flowing north from the Afghan mountains into the Karakum desert. Merv was the principal city of the oasis for the historical periods. A more eloquent source is reflected in two Buddhist manuscripts found at Merv. The history of Sasanian Iran finally comes to an end at Merv in the mid-seventh century. The four centuries of Sasanian rule over Iran coincided with the fundamental changes that marked the transition from late Antiquity to early medieval times manifest in a reorientation towards cultural homogeneity, nationalistic movements and an emphasis on religious identity. Within the Sasanian world coins served as money to facilitate the transactions and economic activities of the population at various levels of society. In fact the status and organisation of the Sasanian army remain controversial issues.
