FeaturedThe Middle Age Game: My Coin Collecting Journey Through Centuries

I recently took on a coin collecting challenge centered on the Middle Ages (500-1500 CE), and what a ride it’s been! Starting with the 500-600 CE period, I discovered coins bursting with diversity across empires – and picked up some handy tips I think fellow collectors will appreciate.

Exploring the 500-600 CE Century

Those early centuries really blew me away with their variety. We’re talking gold solidi to silver drachms, like these standouts:

• A Byzantine gold tremissis of Justinian I (527-565 AD) – those crisp Constantinople mint marks still visible after all these years
• Sasanian silver drachm of Khusru II (around 591-628 AD) showing Persia’s stunning craftsmanship
• Ostrogoth AV solidi minted in Rome (512-530 AD) with that distinctive Germanic flair
• Huna AV dinara from Sind (about 545-575 AD) that practically shouts about cultural exchange in its design

Here’s something I’ve learned: always pair photos with quick notes on mint location, weight, and reign dates. Many coins from this time weren’t dated or overlapped rulers, so context is everything.

What I Learned About Rarity and Grading

Rarity and condition reveal such fascinating stories. Take Justin II solidi – common enough, but try finding one in FDC condition! Or Theodosius III’s solidus: crazy rare because most were melted down after Emperor Maurice’s execution in 602 AD. A few observations from my hunt:

• Mint marks tell tales: Constantinople or Rome coins often survived better, like Justinian I’s chunky 35mm AE follis
• Weight whispers secrets: Lightweights like Maurice Tiberius’ 23-silique solidus might signal scarce mint variations
• Grading gold: Sharp legends and full strikes matter – even Sasanian drachms with ‘lovely detail’ can surprise you at auction

Market tip: Byzantine and Ostrogoth gold holds steady, but don’t sleep on Huna dinaras – they might just be hidden gems.

Dealing with Undated Coins and Reigns That Span Centuries

Here’s where things get tricky: coins without clear dates or rulers whose reigns bridge centuries (looking at you, Khusru II!). My solution? Anchor them to reign dates and keep historical timelines handy. Honestly? These “straddlers” make collections more interesting – embrace the ambiguity!

My Tips for Collecting Medieval Coins

If you’re starting a similar journey, here’s what worked for me:

• Begin with accessible rulers: Justinian I coins are plentiful and great for new collectors
• Watch for consular coins: Maurice Tiberius’s AV solidus (582-602 AD) often survives well with rich history
• Think beyond borders: Sasanian and Huna coins offer stunning designs with less auction competition

I’m itching to explore the next centuries – every coin feels like holding history in your hand. This isn’t just collecting; it’s time travel through pocket change, and I’ll share more as I go!