Featured: My Middle Age Coin Collecting Adventure

I recently took on a fun coin collecting challenge centered on the Middle Ages, tracking coins century by century from 500 to 1500 CE. It’s been a wild ride through some truly fascinating historical pieces, and I’ve learned a few tricks I’d love to share. If ancient and medieval coins spark your interest like they do mine, this approach might just breathe new life into your collection.

Kicking Off with the 500-600 CE Century

Beginning with the 6th century felt like stepping into a time machine. Since many coins from this period lack dates, I got handy at pinning down timelines through rulers’ reigns—like how Justinian I’s gold tremissis (around 527-565 AD) or Khusru II’s silver drachm (about 591-628 AD) can overlap centuries. What really helped? Pairing images with short notes, especially for tricky types like Huna Empire or Ostrogoth Kingdom coins. Take that Anastasius I AV Solidus from 512-517 AD: its craftsmanship reminds me why Byzantine gold keeps us hooked.

Coins That Stole My Heart

A few pieces stood out not just for their looks, but for the stories and lessons they carry. Here’s what grabbed me:

• Byzantine Gold Coins: You’ll see plenty of Justinian I AV Solidi, but high-grade examples with crisp details and minimal wear? Those are the keepers—tough to find but worth the hunt.
• Sasanian Silver Drachms: Khusru II’s drachms are perfect for dipping into ancients—they often show great detail without breaking the bank.
• Hidden Treasures: Theodosius III’s solidi? Rare as hen’s teeth. Their scarcity ties right into dramatic history like Maurice Tiberius’s downfall, making them fascinating long-term holds.

What Worked for Me: Practical Advice

Through trial and error, I picked up some habits that made a real difference. Snap clear photos and jot down notes—especially for coins without dates or those minted across reigns. When judging condition, prioritize sharp strikes and clean surfaces; that Maurice Tiberius solidus from Carthage, for instance, can range from corroded to jaw-dropping. I’ve also noticed coins from fuzzy timeline moments (think century shifts) tend to attract extra collector buzz. And don’t stick to one niche! Mixing gold, silver, bronzes, and different empires—Byzantine, Sasanian, smaller kingdoms—keeps things fresh and full of surprises.

This century-hopping journey through medieval coins reshaped how I collect, uncovering undervalued gems and human stories behind the metal. Give it a shot in your own collection—you might just fall in love with the hobby all over again.