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ANCIENT LYDIANS WERE THE FIRST TO PRODUCE THE GOLD COIN

Ancient gold Byzantine coins

Currency, in one form or another, has been around for centuries and has been called by a number of names. The most well-known form and the indeed the most commonly used throughout the ages is the coin. Historically, the coin has been constructed of a plethora of various metals and alloys; the most widely used and sought after however, is the gold coin and in these instances, the older the coin, the better.

 

While some might believe the Romans were the first to produce gold coins, they may be a bit shocked to find that the history of the gold coin goes further back to 6th century Turkey.

 

Lydia, Turkey, is considered to be the first civilization known to use a natural gold and silver alloy known as electrum. The metal alloy was abundantly available in the regions’ rivers, making it the perfect material to create the world’s first coin.

Lydia Gold

When first “issued” by King Croesus, coins were not commonly seen or used amongst the “common folk” or lower classes. Upon the new currency’s release, King Croesus introduced, intentionally or by accident, a “denominations” system, as the coins had various weights, which helped to determine their worth.

 

The 6th-century gold coins depicted a lion or bull on the obverse, and either a “punchmark” or empirical seal featured on the reverse. Weight, or denomination, ranged from 17.2 grams to .2 grams. New designs were created and introduced as improvements were made throughout the years.

 

Today, the coins are considered to be scarce and held in high regard for not only their rich history but also because of the mystery each coin contains. Any collector looking to add an ancient Lydian coin to their collection can expect to pay between $1000-$2000 depending on the coins’ condition.

 

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Since 1979, Bellevue Rare Coins has been a trusted, family-owned business serving the Greater Seattle Area with locations in Bellevue, Lynnwood, Issaquah, and West Seattle. Specializing in gold, silver, diamond, and jewelry purchasing, in addition to dealing in rare coins. We now offer a vast selection of fine, vintage and custom designed jewelry. Visit anyone of our three friendly locations for the best deals selling or buying.

 

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  • Bellevue

    Bellevue

    321 Bellevue Way NE
    Bellevue, WA 98004
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-454-1283
  • Lynnwood

    Lynnwood

    18411 Alderwood Mall Parkway Suite F
    Lynnwood, WA 98037
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-672-2646
  • Issaquah

    Issaquah

    1175 NW Gilman Blvd Suite B16
    Issaquah, WA 98027
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-392-0450
  • Tacoma

    Tacoma

    2302 Pacific Ave
    Tacoma, WA 98402
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 253-328-4014