About the Department

For the first time, the Lydians came up with the idea of using pieces of precious metals when making transactions - this fact is confirmed by Herodotus himself, who, after a long study of the data, is referred to by current scientists. But in the ancient world, conditional money was used earlier to help with barter - shells were used, and people exchanged cattle with no less success.The beginning of real coinage marked the 7th century, however, according to some sources, this event can be attributed more to the 8th. The truly precious specimens, now carefully preserved by the chosen ones, are made of electrum, which includes gold, copper and very little platinum in various parts.The features of the appearance and branding of what was then used as a means of payment were spherical, most often very irregularly shaped ingots, made, however, in accordance with a single pattern. In order for the layman to verify the legality of the presented ingot, it was enough to look at the approved emblem, which to some extent even gave it a flat surface.However, it was not often necessary to encounter such coins - due to the high cost, it was simply impractical to carry out small transactions using these ingots.But even branding was not very popular in the manufacture of this type of money, and stamps, which serve as a kind of guarantee, began to spread relatively later. On the most archaic samples, only primitive patterns in the form of triangles and randomly scattered lines can be guessed, stars can be marked on some ingots.Later, in the manufacture of means of payment, they began to resort to heraldry, so that lions, bulls and other representatives of the animal kingdom are regularly found on such samples. These images were often framed by a framed ornament.Rich people could apply to special points engaged in coinage for private individuals. These workshops did not belong to state-owned production, and could offer all their technologies to satisfy the whims of wealthy customers.The temple of Artemis has preserved to this day evidence of the democracy of that time - during excavations, a starter was found containing an inscription stating that it is a sign of a certain Phanes. Artifacts of this kind used to be popular, especially among merchants who sought to imprint their name on coins, giving them a certain value and significance.Outstanding specimens and collections should not be considered found coins only in terms of their value as an item that can be profitably sold. Each piece of metal is unique, and with its help it will be possible to successfully explore the peculiarities of cultural and political thinking of that time.Many numismatists, who are willing to spend literally millions of dollars, are well aware of this and acquire new copies not only to amuse their own egos, but also in an attempt to carry unique artifacts through the generations, ensuring their maximum safety.The largest coin auctions are held all over the world, and one of the most iconic is still the New York One, which took place in April 2012. This event was remembered, first of all, by the fact that a Panticapaeum starter made of gold was exhibited during the auction.However, he is not the only one represented at the auction - almost the entire Prospero collection managed to visit the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The aforementioned starter was sold, and the price rose from $650,000 to three million during the bidding process. The rarest specimen was decorated with the most elaborate image of a satyr.However, this coin was not the only one that left the auction at that momentous auction. Since Prosper's collection attracted many wealthy numismatists, the prices for which samples of ancient art were given into possession are simply amazing.A silver tetradrachma made in Sicily was sold for $850,000. And for a beautiful copy with the image of Alexander the Great and minted in his memory, it was successfully sold for $ 300,000.The image of the formidable Minotaur, which was depicted on the obverse of the Knossos starter, was sold for no less than 110,000 dollars. As you know, the mythical beast is closely related to Knossos - according to legend, it was in the depths of the labyrinth located in this city that the monster lived, which was eventually defeated by the fearless Theseus.Thus, each coin carries a whole story, and at first glance, an unremarkable piece of metal can reveal many details about the way of life of people who lived many centuries ago. 1xBet sports welcome bonus for new users bonus of up to $100, use 1xBet promo code free bet o win an attractive welcome bonus offer of up to 100%. 1xBet is a go-to platform for Indian bettors due to its extensive range of betting options. These codes can also be used for betting on other major tournaments like the Premier League, La Liga, Champions League, and more. After a successful deposit, the bonus will be credited automatically, and you can start placing bets on your favorite sports.