Tom Luxsox Coins

Greek Coin

Standout Silver Coins for Serious Collectors

No one can say for sure, but most historians believe that silver was mined several centuries before gold.  Archeologists have found silver mines on the Aegean Sea that date back more than five thousand years.  It was one of the first precious metals mankind learned to separate from lead.

In the early days, silver was not used in coin form. In parts of Ancient Egypt and Sumeria, they used ingots to facilitate trade. Ingots were really nothing more than small chunks of silver.  This silver was given as tribute to rulers or as a sort of tithe to the local temples. It was not actually used as a form of currency until there was a leader everyone recognized.

The first ruler to invest in coinage was Philip II of Macedon (359-336 BC). As the head of the Greek city states, he had enough subjects to release some of the earliest silver coins. But it was his famous son, Alexander the Great, who would build his early empire on huge silver mines in northern Afghanistan.  He used the precious metal to pay his vast armies and to remind them who their leader was. The concept of coinage gained acceptance as Alexander conquered most of the known world.

In later years, silver coins were used by the Roman emperors to pay their legions.  In time, the coins were adopted by administrators, merchants and traders. As you might imagine, the silver coins of the ancient Greeks and Romans are among the most sought after coins in the world because they are the oldest.

Like most hobbies, coin collecting was first practiced by adults.   According to a famous historian, the first emperor of Rome, Caesar Augustus, was a coin collector. Coin collecting was practiced for hundreds of years without any thought of the value of history of ancient coins. But all that changed during the Renaissance.

During the 15th century, monarchs who were curious about the past suddenly started offering substantial sums of money for ancient coins. The pastime was so popular that it became known as "the hobby of kings." Members of the European nobility amassed impressive collections that are in museums today.

Modern Collecting

Why do people collect coins? More often than not, the hobby is passed on from a parent or grandparent.   Most amateur numismatists (coin collectors) who teach youngsters about starting a coin collecting do it to illustrate a few simple life lessons.  First and foremost, they want them to appreciate the past. Each coin tells its own unique story. Not only does it feature the profile of a famous leader, but it also was minted in a certain city on a certain a certain date.

Collecting objects also teaches us the value of maintenance. Whether we are talking about stamps or silver coins, collectibles must be protected from the elements if they are to be preserved. Some collectors focus on coins that commemorate a special event, like the bicentennial.

Numismatics in America

As a relatively young country, the United States was thousands of years behind Europe when it came to coin collecting.  Perhaps that is why it took several centuries for the hobby to catch on in America.  It was not until U.S. began issuing sizable quantities of commemorative coins in the 1930s that the avocation became a hit. In recent years, the Internet has made it much easier for amateurs, professionals and traders to communicate. Online auction sites like eBay give numismatics of all experience levels the ability to buy, sell and trade coins.

Silver American Eagles

Issued by the U.S. government, the Silver Eagle is one of the most famous silver coins in the world. Not only they do they contain a full troy ounce of the purest silver, but they are also offered in limited quantities. Whenever new Silver Eagle coins are announced, coin collectors from across America line up. In fact, demand for the 2009 Silver Eagle was so high, it set a new mintage record at over 30 million coins.

Silver Canadian Maple Leaf

Released just two years after the Eagle, the Maple Leaf is the Canadian answer to the American bestseller. Because it was second, it may lack the cache, but it remains one of the most popular silver coins in North America. One explanation is the eye-catching design and the fact that the Maple Leaf is made from the purest silver, at .9999 pure. The Canadian government also keeps the mintage quite low, so supply is rarely enough to meet the demand.

Morgan Silver Dollars

As one of the rarest and most celebrated American silver coins, the Morgan is a favorite for both new and experienced numismatics. Minted between 1978 and 1904, and then again in 1921, the Morgan is not quite as pure as the aforementioned. The coins are about 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper. Of course, collectors prize them for their historical significance and rarity, not their purity.

When searching for the next showpiece in your coin collection, give these fascinating pieces some careful consideration.

About the Author

Christian Ruelas is a freelance writer who writes about a variety of topics including collecting silver coins.

Minotaur On A Greek Coin $19.99 Minotaur On A Greek Coin - Photographic Print

Chippendale Jewelry Greek Coin Reproduction Dangle Earrings $44.95 The Chippendale Jewelry Greek Coin Reproduction Dangle Earrings are made with antiqued sterling silver to give them an aged look.

Chippendale Jewelry Greek Coin Reproduction Pendant $44.95 The Chippendale Jewelry Greek Coin Reproduction Pendant is made of beautifully antiqued sterling silver and comes with an 18" box chain.

Spartan Queen Coin Bracelet - Roman and Greek Costume Accessories $10.69 Spartan Queen Coin Bracelet

Spartan Queen Coin Earrings - Roman and Greek Costume Accessories $9.04 Spartan Queen Coin Earrings

Coin Hoards: Greek Hoards $78 No Synopsis Available

Inventory of Greek Coin Hoards $58.5 No Synopsis Available

M.Cohen Handmade Designs Greek Coin and Feather Charm On Sterling Silver Necklace $142.5 Greek coin is brass and feather is sterling silver Hand made in the United States Remove before showering to maintain best condition All measurements are approximate as the items are hand made and therefore may vary slightly Made in USA

Coin, Demeter, Goddess of Agriculture, from Olbia on the Black Sea, Greek, 4th Century BC $49.99 Coin, Demeter, Goddess of Agriculture, from Olbia on the Black Sea, Greek, 4th Century BC - Giclee Print

Coin, Eagle Attacking a Dolphin, Olbia on the Black Sea, Greek, 4th Century BC $49.99 Coin, Eagle Attacking a Dolphin, Olbia on the Black Sea, Greek, 4th Century BC - Giclee Print

Gold Coin Armband $15.97 Jewelry & accessories for plus sized Halloween costumes - Our Gold Coin Armband is an ideal accessory to enhance your Greek or Roman Halloween Costume. Adding...

Gold Coin Choker Necklace $14.97 Jewelry & accessories for plus sized halloween costumes - Our Gold Coin Choker is an ideal accessory to enhance your Greek Roman or Belly Dancer Costume...

Alexander Multi Coin Necklace $48 Featuring a distinctly vintage feel, this Alexander multi coin necklace is a unique piece. A thin gold chain is accented by three coin pendants, paying homage to the Greek king. Each coin features the face of Alexander on one side, with the back featuring an eagle design.

Greek 1 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Pendant with 18 Chain $47.57 The coin is the same size as a U.S. nickel. Each one of these real coins is first layered in pure "bright silver." Then the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich pure 24KT gold (this gold work is done by hand). This breathtaking and exclusive work turns these coin into a stunning and true work of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. Each coin comes on a good 14KT gold layered rope chain and placed in a nice jewelry box.

Greek 2 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Cut Out Earrings $114.24 This is an actual minted cut out coin. The coin is the same size as a U.S. quarter. First, a small hole is drilled into the coin, then a very fine jeweler's saw blade is inserted through the hole and worked around the coin's design, cutting away the background, thus leaving the coin's figure floating inside its outer edge. The figure is then selectively layered in brilliant gold and silver. These coins are then made into unique pairs of earrings with sterling silver wires and placed in a nice jewelry box. All work is done by hand. Please Note: The gold and silver is much brighter and distinct than what the photograph shows.

Solidus (Coin) $87.62 High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles The solidus (the Latin word for solid) was originally a gold coin issued by the Romans, and a weight measure for gold more generally, corresponding to 4.5 grams.he solidus was first introduced by Diocletian around 301 CE, struck at 60 to the Roman pound of pure gold (c. 5.3g) and with an initial value equal to 1000 denarii. However, Diocletians solidus was only struck in small quantities, and thus had only minimal economic impact. The solidus was reintroduced by Constantine I in 312 CE, permanently replacing the aureus as the imperial gold coin of the Roman Empire. The solidus was struck at a rate of 72 from a Roman pound of pure gold, each coin weighing twentyfour Roman/Greek carats, or about 4.5 grams of gold per coin. By this time, the solidus was worth 275,000 increasingly debased denarii. Author: Surhone, Lambert M./ Timpledon, Miriam T./ Marseken, Susan F. Binding Type: Paperback Number of Pages: 144 Publication Date: 2010/06/14 Language: English Dimensions: 5.98 x 9.01 x 0.33 inches

Greek 2 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Bolo Tie $51.38 Gorgeous two toned gold on silver world coin bolo tie.The coin is the same size as a quarter. Each one of these real coins from around the world is first layered in pure bright silver. Then, by hand, the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich, pure 24KT gold. This breathtaking work, done exclusively by J & J Jewelers, turns the coin into a stunning and true work of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. It is made into a bolo tie with your choice of either a black or brown bolo cord, and in a nice box.Please Note: The gold and silver is much brighter and distinct than what the photograph shows.

Greek 1 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Ball Marker $60.9 Each one of these coins is first layered in pure bright silver. Then the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich pure 24KT gold and pure silver. This breathtaking and exclusive work turns these coin into stunning and true works of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. Each coin is then turned into a beautiful golf ball marker that is held onto an antique gold hat clip with the strongest of magnets available. For that golfer that has almost everything. These can also be clipped onto your belt. The perfect gift for that special man or woman. The coin is the size of a U.S. nickel.

Greek 1 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Tie Tack $54.24 Each one of these coins is first layered in pure bright silver. Then the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich pure 24KT gold and pure silver. This breathtaking and exclusive work turns these coin into stunning and true works of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. The tie tack includes a jewelry box. The coin is the size of a U.S. nickel.

Plus Premier Greek Goddess Costume for Adult $89.97 Plus Size Greek / Roman costume features a full length chiffon-trimmed gown with gold greek-key embellishment, gold leaf tiara and gold coin necklace. From the high reaches of Mt. Olympus comes a Greek Goddess to fulfill your every wish. You'll look ravishing in this Premier Greek...

White Roman or Greek Goddess Costume - Greek or Roman Costumes $65.96 Halloween Costumes for Women - This Greek or Roman Goddess Costume includes the full-length empire waist white chiffon trimmed gown with gold Greek-key embellishment, gold leaf tiara, and the coin necklace. Zipper closure down back of costume and there is a drape across the back from shoulder to shoulder.

Greek Goddess Adult Costume $36.96 Look as if you descended from Mount Olympus when you wear this Greek Goddess Costume for Adults. The Greek goddess outfit includes a shimmering full-length white dress with a squared neckline. The dress also features gold trim and a thigh-high split, gold cuffs, and gold trimmed drape. The Greek goddess costume is available in one standard size which will fit most women who wear up to a size 12. This outfit is the ultimate in sexy Halloween costumes and you won't find this costume at a better price anywhere on the internet or in any store front or mall. Add even more to the allure of this beautiful goddess ensemble with a Brown Goddess Wig for adults. Gold Coin Earrings and a Necklace with Gold Coins are must-have accessories for this outfit sure to drive the men at your next party bonkers. Add Spartan Queen Coin Earrings for a finishing touch. Color: As Shown Condition: New

Greek Goddess Elite Collection Adult Plus Costume $99.99 Includes: Full length chiffon-trimmed gown with gold greek-key embellishment,gold leaf tiara and coin necklace. Shoes not included.

Super Deluxe Plus Size Greek or Roman Goddess Costume - Roman or Greek Costumes $75.04 Plus Size Halloween Costumes - This adult Plus Size Super Deluxe Roman or Greek Goddess Costume features the full length chiffon-trimmed gown with gold Greek key embellishment, gold leaf tiara and the coin necklace.

Greek 2 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Cut Out Pendant with 18 Chain and Rope Bezel $118.95 Real minted coin cut out. This coin is the size of a U.S. quarter. First, a small hole is drilled into the coin, then a very fine jeweler's saw blade is inserted through the hole and worked around the coin's design, cutting away the background, thus leaving the coin's figure floating inside its outer edge. The figure is then selectively layered in brilliant gold and silver. All of this work is done by hand.Each work of art comes in a jewelry box on a copper rope chain layered in 14KT gold.

Greek 2 Drachma Owl Two Tone Coin Cut Out Pendant with 18 Chain $60.9 Real minted coin cut out. This coin is the size of a U.S. quarter. First, a small hole is drilled into the coin, then a very fine jeweler's saw blade is inserted through the hole and worked around the coin's design, cutting away the background, thus leaving the coin's figure floating inside its outer edge. The figure is then selectively layered in brilliant gold and silver. All of this work is done by hand.Each work of art comes in a jewelry box on a copper rope chain layered in 14KT gold.

Sexy Greek Queen Costume $34.99 Sexy Greek Queen Costume sounds like a redundancy to me, because it's hard to not look hot when you're dressed in a toga. You have to actively work not to look attractive with a piece of clothing like the Greek toga.Whether you want to go out this Halloween dressed as a Hellenic empress, a queen, a goddess, or a priestess, it's hard to go wrong with this costume. It's got as much range as Alexander the Great’s empire. It comes with a Grecian-style tunic dress (with asymmetrical sash and attached shoulder veils with gold coin trim details at hem) and an adjustable jewel detailed belt and head wreath. The Sexy Greek Queen Costume is a costume for any woman who wants to look attractive while overseeing the Hellenic world as either a queen, an empress, or even a goddess.

Greek 1 Drachma Owl Two Tone Plain Bezel Coin with 18 Chain $73.29 Each one of these real coins from around the world is first layered in pure bright silver. Then the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich pure 24KT gold and pure silver. This breathtaking and exclusive work turns these coin into stunning and true works of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. Each coin comes mounted in a gold filled bezel (frame), on an 18" rope chain with a jewelry box. The coin is the size of a U.S. nickel.

Greek 1 Drachma Owl Two Tone Rope Bezel Coin on 18 Chain $95.19 Each one of these real coins is first layered in pure bright silver. Then the figures of each are highlighted and brought to life with rich pure 24KT gold and pure silver. This breathtaking and exclusive work turns these coin into stunning and true works of art. Each coin is hermetically sealed against wear in clear, hard acrylic coating. Each coin comes mounted in a gold filled rope type bezel (frame), on an 18" rope chain with a jewelry box. The coin is the size of a U.S. nickel.

Mens Greek Emperor Costume $42.95 Even the likes of Perseus, Theseus, and Heracles needed somebody to rule over them. That’s where the Mens Greek Emperor Costume comes in. He oversees the whole enchilada. Nothing goes on in the Hellenic world—from Macedonia to Bactria (Of course Leonidas didn't need anyone to oversee his tribulations, because he was a king and a hero).Mens Greek Emperor Costume is a Grecian style tunic with an attached cape with gold coin trim details at the hem, a golden rope belt, and a head wreath. While your costume might be more imposing from on top of a war elephant, you can still use it to dress up as Zeus or any other god from Mt. Olympus. It also lends itself to being paired up with other members of the Greek ruling class, so keep that in mind. The Mens Greek Emperor Costume is the perfect outfit for ruling an empire as Alexander the Great or impressing maidens as Zeus, the king of the gods. Whatever you choose, this costume is pitch perfect Hellenic royalty.