Featured: My Middle Age Coin Collecting Adventure

I recently tackled a fascinating collecting challenge: coins from the Middle Ages, roughly 500 CE to 1500 CE. What an adventure it’s been! Inspired to explore century by century, I began with the 500-600 CE period and was amazed by the variety and artistry. Let me share what I’ve discovered – some standout coins, practical tips for attribution, and market observations from my own collecting experience.

Coins That Caught My Eye: 500-600 CE

Starting this journey, I focused on pieces that tell vivid stories through their designs. Here are a few that really grabbed my attention:

• Byzantine gold tremissis of Justinian I (c. 527-565 AD): You’ll often find these imperial coins surprisingly well-preserved, with crisp inscriptions that transport you back to Constantinople’s glory days.
• Sasanian silver drachm of Khusru II (c. 591-628 AD): Even common issues show incredible craftsmanship – I love how the details hold up on these Persian beauties when you find a good one.
• Ostrogoth solidus in Anastasius I’s name (struck 512-517 AD): Minted in Rome after the empire’s fall, this gold piece feels like cultural history in your hand. The weight alone tells you they didn’t skimp on precious metals!
• Hun dinara from Sind mint (c. 545-575 AD): This rare gold imitation of Sasanian styles is perfect for collectors who enjoy mysteries – that anonymous chieftain portrait keeps you wondering.
• Byzantine solidus of Maurice Tiberius (582-602 AD): Watch for lightweight versions of these consular coins – mint marks like Carthage can make all the difference in value.

Working With Undated Coins

Dealing with rulers like Khusru II whose reigns spanned centuries? I’ve learned to lean on historical context and mint marks. Take Byzantine follis coins – those tiny officina letters become crucial clues for dating. A quick tip: always pair clear photos with brief notes in your records. It makes attribution easier and sharing discoveries with fellow collectors much more satisfying.

What I’ve Learned Collecting These

After handling many of these pieces, here’s what stands out: Coins like Justin II solidi (565-578 AD) appear frequently, but finding one with full strikes and sharp details? That’s the real hunt – be ready to pay more when you spot these gems at auction. Rarity dramatically affects value too. Theodosius III solidi practically vanish after Phocas’ 602 AD coup, making survivors incredibly desirable. When grading, prioritize detail retention – coins like our Sasanian drachm friend hold their value best when legends and portraits remain crisp. Gold pieces from Constantinople or Rome offer stable investments, but don’t overlook silver drachms as affordable entry points into this era.

Why These Coins Hooked Me

As I wrap up this first century dive, what strikes me most is how these little metal discs breathe life into history – you’re holding empires, trade routes, and daily struggles right in your palm. My advice? Pick one century to explore first, keep detailed notes, and savor that electric moment when you encounter something entirely new. That’s the magic that keeps us collectors coming back!