Those who are new to the field of numismatics, often avoid ancient coins thinking they are too expensive or too complicated. Don’t make that mistake. Collecting ancient coins can be fun. The history of numismatics shows that antique pieces have always been popular with serious collectors. Many scholars have worked to appraise the antiquity and the authenticity of these coins. Before you follow in the footsteps of these famous coin collectors, know the basics first. Here is the information that will keep you on track when you are out on the hunt for these ancient trinkets.
What is the biggest challenge that a beginner may face when he enters into the world of ancient coins? Identification. Scholars have been studying the attributes of these coins to unearth the mysteries of the past. They have studied hundreds of coins and recorded their details. But you can also find those coins that the historians or numismatists are yet to explore. Their attributes are the subjects of debates, so you should be cautious while buying coins that are not yet cataloged. Being cataloged helps to establish the rarity and authenticity of coins.
Ancient coins are categorized on the basis of their places of origin. When taking your picks, try to collect pieces belonging to one or more of these areas. Here are a few points to note:
The earliest coins had made their appearance during the seventh century BC, but experimentation with coin systems had started long before that. Pre-coins or proto-coins existed during this time.
Instead of going for these early coins, start with the Roman coins that are well documented, and therefore, easy to identify. Most of these coins use a uniform style of inscriptions with Latin alphabet. If you want to start small, opt for bronze coins of the late Roman Imperial period; they are quite cost-effective.
Greek coinage is less popular among beginners as they are more expensive and involves a more complicated attribution process. If you still want to opt for these coins, take your pick from the three broad periods, namely, Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic.
Besides classical Roman, Greek, Byzantine, and Biblical coins, you can find many other ancient coins on the market that are also of high historical significance. Indian and Chinese coins are a good case in point. It will be noteworthy to mention here that the coinage system in both of these countries developed independently of the West.
Grade refers to the process of describing a series of coins. The price of an item depends on its grade. Ancient coins follow a more subjective grading procedure, taking into account many variables like centering and faults in the planchet or die. The price also depends on how the pieces have maintained their luster and retained other attributes through the centuries. The quality of engraving and the manufacturing process (if handcrafted or not) also influence their pricing.
Now that you are equipped with the basic information about ancient coins, step into this world with confidence. If you are wondering where to begin, get in touch with us.