Roman Coinage
Roman Coins: Pocket-Sized Propaganda So, the Roman coinage, ever dug a coin out of your pocket and glanced at it? In Rome, that casual glance was a power move. These weren’t just bits of metal—they
Category: Ancient Coins
Greek and Roman Coins
Divine Currency: How Gods Ruled Ancient Coins Money talks—but in the ancient world, it prayed. Greek and Roman coins weren’t just pocket change; they were miniature temples, carrying the faces of gods who blessed empires, warned
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Apollonia Coins
Apollonia Coins: Maritime Wealth and Cultural Power in Ancient Illyria
Tucked along the shimmering Adriatic, the city of Apollonia was once one of Illyria’s brightest coastal gems. Founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra, this ancient port did more than just trade — it educated, influenced, and minted some of the region’s most enduring silver coins.
Collectors who study Apollonia’s coinage — especially the silver drachms — find themselves drawn into a blend of Greek elegance and Illyrian grit. These coins are more than currency; they’re little vessels of history.
A City of Oracles, Merchants, and Coins
Apollonia wasn’t just another port on the map. It had a certain intellectual flair — a place where philosophy mingled with commerce and coastal life. Cicero himself called it “a great and important city.” Roman aristocrats sent their sons here to study, while merchants filled the markets with goods from across the Adriatic.
It made sense that such a city would mint its own currency — and do it with a distinct touch that blended culture with utility.
🐄 The Apollonia Silver Drachm
If you’re familiar with coins from Dyrrachium, Apollonia’s drachms will look familiar — but look closer, and you’ll spot what makes them special.
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Obverse: A peaceful pastoral image — a cow nursing her calf. It’s a shared symbol between Apollonia and Dyrrachium, likely chosen for its association with fertility and calm prosperity.
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Reverse: This is where Apollonia coins stand apart — the tripod takes center stage. Often used in ancient religious ceremonies and oracles, the tripod hints at deeper spiritual roots. In some cases, other elements like thunderbolts or wreaths appear.
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Legend: ΑΠΟΛ, the abbreviated name of the city, often accompanied by magistrate marks or small control symbols.
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Metal: Silver
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Weight: Around 3.2–3.5 grams
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Minting Period: Primarily from the 3rd to 2nd centuries BC
These coins weren’t minted to sit in temple treasuries. They were made to be used — and used they were. Most examples we find today show signs of heavy circulation, and that wear tells a story of daily life, trade, and travel.
The Meaning Behind the Tripod
The tripod on Apollonia coins wasn’t chosen for decoration — it had deep religious and cultural meaning. Tripods were associated with oracular wisdom, particularly at Delphi, and were often used in sacred rites.
By choosing this symbol, Apollonia wasn’t just boasting about wealth — it was saying, “We’re connected to tradition, the gods, and the wisdom of the Greek world.” In a way, these coins were both spiritual and practical — a perfect mirror of the city itself.
Apollonia and Dyrrachium: Partners in Coinage
Just down the road, Dyrrachium was striking nearly identical coins. The two cities clearly shared minting standards and possibly even policies.
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Dyrrachium coins: Cow and calf on the obverse, club or star on the reverse.
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Apollonia coins: Same obverse, but the tripod defines the reverse.
The similarity wasn’t accidental — these coins were used interchangeably across Illyria and beyond. If you’re building a collection, comparing examples from each city is both fun and rewarding.
Tips for Collectors
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Focus on detail. A clean strike, especially on the tripod, can make a big difference in value.
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Check the legends. Look for ΑΠΟΛ and any accompanying marks — they can reveal the coin’s issuing magistrate or period.
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Expect variation. Some coins lean more Greek in style, others show more local influence.
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Price Range: $100–$250 is typical, but sharp, rare types can go for more.
Because these coins circulated heavily, expect wear — but that’s part of the charm.
Why Apollonia Coins Belong in Your Collection
These coins carry the spirit of a city that valued wisdom, trade, and tradition. They’re not flashy, but they have depth. Each one connects you to a time when Illyrian cities stood shoulder to shoulder with the great powers of the Greek world.
And every time you flip one over and see that tripod, you’re reminded that even in the marketplace, there was room for the sacred.
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Celtic Coins
Celtic Coins: A Collector’s Journey Into the Tribal Treasures of Ancient Europe
The first time I held a Celtic coins, I was hooked. It wasn’t the prettiest coin — in fact, it was a bit crude, off-center, and the design didn’t look like much at first glance. But the more I stared at it, the more it drew me in. These coins aren’t just currency; they’re like fingerprints from forgotten tribes, full of mystery and meaning.
Celtic coins don’t shout like Roman aurei or Greek staters. They whisper — and sometimes that’s even more powerful. Let’s dive into this world of swirling designs, fierce independence, and abstract beauty.
Who Were the Celts?
The Celts weren’t an empire. They were tribes — lots of them — scattered across Europe from Britain and Gaul to the Balkans and Anatolia. No central government, no unified army. Just a shared cultural thread: warrior pride, deep spirituality, and jaw-dropping metalwork.
They began minting coins around the 3rd century BCE, borrowing heavily from Greek models at first — think Philip II’s horse and chariot. But it didn’t take long for the Celts to do their own thing. That’s when it gets interesting.
What Makes Celtic Coins So Special?
Celtic coins feel handmade. You can see the strike marks, feel the uneven flan, and admire the bold (sometimes borderline psychedelic) designs. They weren’t concerned with symmetry or photorealism — they focused on symbols, movement, and raw energy.
Some feature horses with noodle legs. Others show solar wheels, spirals, or just eyes and noses in strange proportions. You won’t always know what you’re looking at — and that’s half the fun.
Common Types of Celtic Coins
Potins
These are chunky, cast base-metal coins — usually bronze or a tin-lead mix. Found mostly in Gaul and Britain, potins often feature basic faces or animals. They’re affordable and great for hands-on collectors.
Staters
These are the gold and silver stars of Celtic coinage. They started as copies of Greek coins but evolved into their own style. If you see a gold coin with a swirling horse and no inscription, it’s probably a Celtic stater.
Quinarii & Deniers
Smaller silver pieces, often with a Roman flavor but still holding onto Celtic flair. Good for those who enjoy crossover history.
Local Bronze Issues
These were everyday pocket change — crude but packed with local character. Great for collectors who want to explore regional styles.
Symbols and Styles to Look For
Horses
The go-to Celtic symbol. Often abstract, with long legs, wild manes, or exaggerated movement. Meant to show power, speed, and divine connection.
Solar Wheels & Spirals
Cosmic symbols representing time, the sun, or cycles. These were spiritual societies, and it shows.
Faces & Eyes
Sometimes human, sometimes not. Faces on Celtic coins can be just a curl for a beard and a dot for an eye — almost cartoonish, but totally intentional.
Writing (When It Exists)
Most Celtic coins are anonymous — no names, no dates. But later ones start showing Latin letters and tribal identifiers, especially in Gaul.
Books Worth Reading
- “Coins of the Ancient Celts” – Derek Allen
- “Celtic Coinage in Britain” – Philip de Jersey
- “The Celtic Coinage of Gaul” – R.P. Mack
- Auction catalogs from Spink, CNG, and NAC – Real-life examples and pricing trends.
Collector Tips From the Trenches
- Start small. Potins and bronze issues are affordable and full of variety.
- Don’t stress over condition. These coins are supposed to look rough. That’s part of the charm.
- Use a loupe. You’ll start spotting things — hidden symbols, faint letters — that aren’t visible with the naked eye.
- Keep notes. I jot down where and when I bought each coin. It builds a personal connection and helps with later research.
Spotting Fakes
- Be careful with gold staters. They’re heavily forged.
- Avoid coins that are too round and too perfect. Celtic coins almost never look factory-made.
- Learn the weight ranges. If a coin is far off from the standard, ask questions.
Caring for Celtic Coins
- Never clean them. Ever. That dull gray or green tone is called patina, and it’s what collectors love.
- Store in PVC-free flips or archival trays.
- Keep a stable environment. No moisture, no extreme heat.
Museums With Great Celtic Collections
- British Museum (London) – Excellent Iron Age selection.
- Musée d’Archéologie Nationale (Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France) – Celtic heaven.
- National Museum of Ireland (Dublin) – Especially strong on Irish tribal issues.
Final Thoughts
Celtic coins aren’t just money from the past. They’re pieces of tribal art. They’re puzzles from a world that didn’t leave much written history. Each one invites you to slow down, look closer, and imagine the hands that struck it — not with machines, but with fire, hammer, and heart.
If you want a collection with soul, start with a Celtic coinage.
And trust me — it won’t be your last.
Happy collecting!
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Illyria Coins
Illyrian Coins: A Collector’s Guide to the Hidden Wealth of the Western Balkans
Have you ever picked up an ancient coin and wondered whose hands it passed through? Illyrian coins carry that sense of mystery. They’re not just collectibles — they’re voices from a long-gone civilization that once thrived along the Adriatic coast. From traders and seafarers to kings and warriors, the people of Illyria left behind coins that whisper stories of power, trade, and belief.
Unlike the polished uniformity of Roman denarii or the consistent style of Greek tetradrachms, Illyrian coins are a bit more rugged — sometimes irregular, often bold, and always fascinating. For collectors, they offer a unique adventure into a region that lived between worlds.
A Journey Through Time: Illyria in Silver and Bronze
Illyria wasn’t a single nation, but rather a patchwork of tribal territories and coastal cities. By the 5th century BCE, Greek influence had already crept in through trade and colonization. It was only natural that Illyrian cities began minting their own coins, often mimicking Greek styles, but over time, you see their own identity begin to emerge.
These coins evolved as Illyria did. In the early phases, they were largely silver, featuring gods and symbols borrowed from Hellenistic culture. As Rome extended its grip over the region in the 2nd century BCE, Latin replaced Greek on the coins, and emperors’ faces began to appear. Yet Illyria never entirely lost its distinct touch.
Types of Illyria Coins You Might Come Across
Drachms
These are the bread and butter of Illyrian coinage — small, silver, and practical. They often show Greek deities or local motifs like anchors and cows. Many are surprisingly affordable, making them perfect for beginner collectors.
Staters
Heavier than drachms and often more finely struck, staters were used for larger trades. Apollonia and Dyrrachium staters are particularly well-known, with designs that reflect both local pride and Greek artistic influence.
Tetradrachms
If you’re drawn to large, detailed coins, these are a dream. Issa minted some of the finest, featuring sea creatures, ships, and unique inscriptions. They’re rare, but worth hunting down.
Denarii (Roman Influence)
As Rome took over, Illyrian mints began producing denarii bearing the likenesses of emperors. These coins blend local styles with Roman propaganda, giving us a fascinating hybrid form of coinage.
Mint Cities That Shaped the Region
Apollonia
One of Illyria’s most important coastal cities, Apollonia minted silver coins marked by the tripod of Apollo — a nod to its Hellenistic roots. The city’s coinage is clean, symmetrical, and widely collected.
Dyrrachium
Look for the famous cow and calf motif — it’s iconic. Coins from Dyrrachium are well-struck and were widely used across the Balkans, even reaching Italy at times.
Issa
Located on what’s now the Croatian island of Vis, Issa was a maritime powerhouse. Their coins often show dolphins, ships, and Poseidon’s trident — fitting for a city so tied to the sea.
Scodra
Coins from this inland city are less common but offer a more local flavor. Some feature portraits believed to represent Illyrian kings or regional deities, making them a treat for advanced collectors.
Symbols That Tell Stories
Gods and Icons
Sure, you’ll see familiar faces like Athena and Zeus — but with twists. An Illyrian Athena might have a distinct helmet or companion animal. These coins show how Illyrians made imported imagery their own.
More Than Currency
Coins were communication tools. A ruler might use them to assert legitimacy. A city might flaunt its victory in battle. Even religious festivals could get immortalized in silver.
Clues in the Details
Tiny marks — like dots around the edge, animals in the background, or even odd letter shapes — can tell you which city or tribe issued the coin. Sometimes, the smallest features reveal the biggest stories.
Must-Have Books for Illyrian Coin Collectors
“Illyrian Coinage: An Overview” – John Wilkes
A friendly introduction for those just starting out. Not too academic, but rich with useful background.
“Coins of the Ancient Illyrians” – Aleksandar Jovanović
Lots of clear photos and side-by-side comparisons. If you’re a visual learner, this is a top pick.
“The Numismatic History of Illyria” – Oliver Hoover
For deep dives and historical analysis. A bit more scholarly, but highly respected.
Getting Started: Tips from the Field
- Start Simple: A clean silver drachm from Dyrrachium is a perfect entry point.
- Avoid Too-Shiny Coins: Bright polish often means it was cleaned — and that can reduce value.
- Know Your Dealers: Stick with trusted sellers, whether online or at shows.
- Join the Conversation: Forums like CoinTalk and Numista are full of collectors happy to help.
How to Handle, Store, and Authenticate Your Coins
Grading Basics
Don’t get too hung up on mint state labels. A worn but genuine coin with a clear design is still a treasure.
Spotting Fakes
Modern forgeries can look convincing. Always check for seam lines on edges, overly perfect surfaces, or mismatched fonts.
Proper Storage
Use flips or capsules that are PVC-free. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight. A well-kept coin will hold both its value and charm.
Where to See Illyria Coins in the Flesh
- Albanian National Museum (Tirana) – Outstanding Apollonia and Scodra examples.
- Archaeological Museum (Split, Croatia) – Great Issa coinage collection.
- Kunsthistorisches Museum (Vienna) – A top-tier numismatic display.
- British Museum (London) – Strong Balkan holdings, with Illyrian specimens.
Seeing them in person gives you a deeper appreciation for their texture, weight, and beauty.
Are They Worth Collecting? Absolutely
You don’t need deep pockets to start. And while some Illyrian coins are climbing in value, especially rare Scodra or Issa types, most are still within reach for the average collector.
- Look for bold designs and readable inscriptions.
- Avoid cleaned or corroded coins unless deeply discounted.
- Keep a collecting journal to track your acquisitions and research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are they legal to buy?
Yes — just be cautious with exports from certain countries.
Where can I buy them?
Trusted platforms like VCoins, MA-Shops, and reputable auction houses.
Should I get my coins graded?
For high-value items, yes. Otherwise, it’s up to you.
Can I collect them on a budget?
Definitely. Start with common drachms and work your way up.
One Last Thought
Illyria coins don’t just fill a slot in a collection tray — they spark curiosity. They’re your invitation to explore a lesser-known chapter of ancient history, full of ambition, resilience, and cultural fusion.
Pick one up. Hold it to the light. You’re not just holding a coin — you’re holding a story.
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