Lovely Ancient Coins Under $100: My Budget Treasure Hunt

Lately, I’ve been hooked on ancient coin collecting. My favorite challenge? Tracking down beautiful, historically rich pieces for under $100. It’s not just about saving money—it’s the thrill of the hunt and building a collection that means something without emptying my wallet.

Why I Love Budget Collecting

Over the years, I’ve learned that constraints actually fuel creativity. Focusing on affordable coins has trained my eye for hidden gems, like that Roman coin with the Chi-Rho emblem from Constantine’s reign. It’s proof you don’t need deep pockets to own history—just patience and a bit of know-how.

My Favorite Budget Finds

I’ve uncovered some real treasures showing great coins don’t require big spending. Here are a few that surprised me:

• My Constantius II follis from Cyzicus (AD 335-336). Started as a grubby $5 uncleaned coin, but turned out to be rated R4—only the second known of its type! That laureate bust and soldiers with standards taught me cleaning and research reveal magic.
• A Gallienus antoninianus from Rome (AD 267-268), snagged for $41. Its dark patina and sharp antelope reverse make it a steal among ‘Zoo series’ coins.
• This Greek hemidrachm from Thessaly (440-400 BC), ex-BCD Collection, cost $80. The toned finish and rare Thessalos-with-bull design? Proof classical silver can be within reach.
• My Syracuse bronze from Agathokles’ time (317-310 BC) for $34. That dark glossy patina and Kore head? Hellenistic beauty on a budget.

How to Find Your Own Bargains

Here’s what I’ve learned about scoring great deals:

• Try auctions instead of dealers: I’ve found better prices at auctions than shops with their markups. Remember that Carus antoninianus priced at $100 in a shop? At auction I grabbed similar coins like a Faustina I denarius for $45.
• Check unexpected spots: Don’t skip charity shops or bulk lots online. Once I scored eight old coppers including a Spanish cob for just $27. Always squint at those photos!
• Verify with databases: I lean on RIC, notinric, and Wildwinds. My Constantius II find actually revealed gaps in RIC—some series are rarer than published, so cross-check mint marks carefully.
• Remember hidden costs: Factor in shipping and fees. That Severus Alexander denarius cost me $100 after premiums, so now I aim for coins under $80 to stay safe.

Grading and Rarity Insights

Affordable coins can still shine. I prioritize strike quality and patina—like my Gallienus coin where the sharp portrait outweighs minor flatness. Rarity doesn’t always mean expensive either; my Constantius II was ultra-rare yet cost peanuts. Always check wear and centering—they’re value indicators.

Final Thoughts on My Coin Hunt

Collecting ancients under $100 has been eye-opening—full of surprises and smart buys. I’m endlessly fascinated by each coin’s story and our shared passion. If you’re starting small, try for one or two coins monthly. Share your finds! Happy hunting—here’s to your next under-$100 treasure!