The Princess Mummy: Not Ancient, Not Persian, Not Dead in 465 BC

The Princess Mummy: Not Ancient, Not Persian, Not Dead in 465 BC

A sarcophagus containing a "Persian mummy" was offered for $11 million, claiming to be the daughter of King Xerxes. But inside the ancient-looking coffin, forensic experts found a modern lead pencil and a reed mat woven within the last 50 years. What other shocking details unraveled this extraordinary claim?

In this episode, we delve into the discovery of a mummy near the Iranian border in Pakistan, initially believed to be an unparalleled archaeological find. We explore the intricate details of its presentation, the initial diplomatic fervor, and the forensic evidence that ultimately exposed a sophisticated deception.

Event: Discovery of a "Persian Mummy"
Location: Balochistan region, Pakistan
Year: 2000
Claimed Identity: Rhodugune, daughter of King Xerxes
Asking Price: $11 million

- The wooden sarcophagus and stone coffin were crafted with genuine gold and a Greek inscription.
- The inscription identified the mummy as "Rhodugune, the daughter of the King Xerxes."
- X-rays revealed a woman, at least 21 years old, 4 feet 7 inches tall, with internal organs removed and replaced in an authentic mummification style.
- Traces of a modern lead pencil were found inside the stone coffin.
- A reed mat beneath the body was dated to within the last 50 years, not thousands.

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