AI Image Technology + Ancient Coin Collecting Led to… THIS! My Hilarious Dive into Digital Art
June 28, 2025My Journey Crafting a Calendar with the Twelve Caesars Coins
June 28, 2025I’ve been hooked on this numismatic game that spotlights medieval coins, starting with the 500-600 CE period. It feels like a real treasure hunt—uncovering rare pieces while swapping stories with fellow collectors. The excitement of discovering coins I’d never seen before, each with its own historical tale, has truly enriched my collecting experience.
The Game’s Setup and How I Played
The simple century-based structure works beautifully. For this round, I tracked down any coin, medal, or commemorative from 500-600 CE, no matter the denomination or metal. When sharing finds, I always included key details like mint locations and rulers—it’s amazing how coins from long-reigning emperors can bridge centuries, adding unexpected twists to the search.
Notable Coins I Discovered
This era revealed some absolute stunners that capture its incredible diversity. A few personal favorites:
- Byzantine gold tremissis of Justinian I (ca. 527-565 AD) – Constantinople’s artistry at its finest
- Sasanian silver drachm of Khusru II (ca. 591-628 AD) – shows how undated coins can span centuries
- Ostrogoth solidi minted in Rome (512-530 AD) – fascinating blend of cultures in Anastasius I and Justinian I issues
- Huna Empire gold dinara (circa 545-575 AD) – Sasanian-inspired designs from a lesser-known region
- Byzantine solidi from Justin II (565-578 AD) – when you find one with full details, it takes your breath away
Collecting Insights and Practical Tips
This journey taught me valuable lessons about medieval collecting. Rarity matters—coins like Theodosius III solidi vanish quickly after events like Phocas’ 602 AD coup. I’ve learned to always verify provenance. Condition is crucial too: even for common emperors like Justin II, well-struck specimens are scarce, so I carefully examine wear patterns. And never underestimate a coin’s backstory—Maurice Tiberius’ coins carry such dramatic history. My advice? Keep thorough notes and photos; they transform your collection from a pile of metal into living history.
Why This Era Excites Me
As I wrap up this century, I’m struck by how much these coins reveal—from Byzantine politics to Sasanian craftsmanship. The combination of precious metals, intricate designs, and human drama makes 500-600 CE endlessly fascinating. I’m already itching to explore the next century in the game. If you collect, try this approach yourself—it’s a wonderful way to deepen your connection with the past while sharing discoveries with friends.