STORIES · THE JOURNAL

Numismatics for the curious

Emperors, mints, symbols and the journey of coins across the Mediterranean. Stories to understand what you carry.

Athens' owl: the coin that conquered the Mediterranean

For two centuries, the Athenian tetradrachm was the most recognised currency of the ancient world. Here's why.

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From southern Baetica to the throne of Rome: how a Hispanic ruler took the Empire to its greatest extent — and why his aureus is so coveted.

The mint mark reveals where a coin was struck. Learn to read it and discover why it changes a piece's value.

The most reliable coin in history held its value for ten centuries. The story of the money that joined East and West.

Weight, die, patina and provenance: the guide to what lies behind a certificate of authenticity.

Wreaths, palms and winged goddesses: how Rome celebrated its victories by striking them for the whole Empire.

Why we never solder or pierce a coin — and how the reversible setting preserves its historical value.

Numismatics, history and the pieces arriving in the collection. No noise.