Coins: Ancient

Discover the Ancient World & Become a Collector

Many people are amazed to learn that many coins struck nearly 2000 years ago by the ancient Romans can be bought for under $20. While fairly modern coins, like the Australian 1930 penny, can cost many thousands of dollars. It is therefore very obvious that age does not relate to rarity or value when talking coins. However, people are encouraged to get involved for the sake of the hobby, the desire to learn about history-people, places and events.

There's something special in being able to hold a coin in your hands which could have belonged to Julius Caesar or have been in the pocket of some gladiator or slave.

Perhaps you are already one of those happy souls who likes coins simply because you like the look of them or the history behind them fascinates you. Most people are drawn to collecting for the challenge it holds. This motivation is not just the sole preserve of numismatists, It's the same bug that drives on collectors of stamps, antiques or even phonecards.

There is something about collecting coins in particular that other hobbies cannot match. It's a fact that you can easily buy a respectable bronze Roman coin for under $20. There is something you cannot explain in holding such a coin and imagining the endless number of generations who might have held it. You are also overpowered by the feeling that you, as a collector, are really only the immediate custodian of that coin. Look at the coin and imagine whose collection it will be in in another 2000 years time.