Coins & Numismatics
In ancient times, pieces of gold and silver were widely used in trade. However without standardized coinage, the weight and purity of the metal had to be tested every time it changed hands. By 650 BC, inhabitants on the Greek island of Lydia were using bean-shaped lumps of electrum, a natural alloy of gold and silver, stamped with official symbols indicating weight and purity. By 550 BC, the practice of striking coins was established in all the important trading cities throughout the known world.
People have accumulated coins for their monetary value as long as they have been minted. The collection of coins for their artistic value was a later development. However, there is evidence from the archaeological and historical record of coin collections as far back as Ancient Rome and medieval Mesopotamia.
Coin collecting and appreciation as we know it today began around the 14th century. Coins of interest to collectors often include those that circulated for only a brief time, coins with mint errors and especially beautiful or historically significant pieces. The current record-holder for the world's most expensive coin is a 1794 Silver Liberty Dollar, which sold for 7.59 million dollars in May 2010.
Auctions can be a great way to both research and add to your own coin collection. Our Collector's Guide is designed to help you research coin values and bid on coins in live auctions. Each collection includes images, upcoming lots and price results for lots previously sold at auction. Navigate among the collections below featuring Indian Half Eagles, Mercury Dimes, Buffalo Nickels and much more!
- Barber Half Dollar
- Buffalo Nickel
- Canada Silver Dollar
- Capped Bust Half Dollar
- Coronet Cents
- Draped Bust Large Cent
- Franklin Half Dollar
- Gold Five Rouble
- Gold Half Sovereign
- Gold Half Union
- Gold Sovereign
- Gold Ten Rouble
- Indian Head Penny
- Indian Quarter Eagle
- Liberty Half Eagle
- Mercury Dime
- Mexican Escudos
- Morgan Silver Dollar
- Peace Dollar
- South Africa Krugerrand
- Spanish Escudos
- St. Gaudens Double Eagle
- Stater
- Walking Liberty Half Dollar
- Zecchino
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