Ancient coins can be quite useful in bringing history to your hands. The images are those of the emperors, the scenes show real events, and even the coin itself shows the ability of a culture to purify metals and make coins. Making coins in antiquity was more arduous than it is now, there were no mechanical mass production devices. So ancient coin collecting can be a quite informative hobby.
Collecting Biblical coins is a special branch of ancient coin collecting. They can bring events of the Bible in a special link to the present. Nothing can substitute for the real thing.
One problem with collecting ancient coins is their shortage, and lack of precision in their production, makes counterfeiting them too easy. There are many fakes out there, and if you pay for the real coin, you want the real coin. In fact, if it looks too well preserved, look it over very carefully. Remember. If it was struck by a die under the pressure of a press, it cannot be from the date shown. We do not sell ancient coins because we do not have the expertise of evaluation them.
Our recommendation is to deal with a known, reputable dealer with whom you have established a trust. Whenever possible, view the coin in person. If you have no dealer in your area go to a coin show and meet the antique coin dealers. As a rule you should look for the ANA membership of your dealer, since there is a strict set of rules of conduct that are viewable online at ANA’s site. And deal with those who either specialize in ancient coins or have a line of ancient coins, since they are probably more expert than someone with a handful they picked up with a purchase of an estate. Here, dealing with a properly credentialed professional is strongly recommended.
If you prefer to buy online, consider going to Vcoins, since they are an online sales outlet for many dealers specialized in these coins, and who can spot a counterfeit coin before it enters their inventory.
Remember the axiom, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. This really applies here!
This article is being made available from Black Spaniel Gallery at http://blackspanielgallery.comby the author. Links to major English speaking mints are available at Black Spaniel Gallery.
