My Numismatic Surprise: The Coins I Purchased Today

What a lucky break! I recently came across an online charity shop listing that made my collector’s heart skip—eight ancient coins for just 20 quid (about $27). The family had donated them after a relative passed, describing them simply as “old copper coins,” but I spotted a telltale Spanish cob from the 1600s peeking out in the blurry photos. At barely over £2 per coin, I figured it was worth a punt. Now that they’re in my hands, let me share the thrill of unpacking history on a shoestring budget.

Charity Shop Gold: Why It Pays to Look

Honestly, charity shops are my secret weapon for finds like this. Since they prioritize fundraising over valuations, you can stumble upon incredible deals. The photos were awful, but something about that cob coin made me take the leap. When the package arrived, I couldn’t believe my eyes—coins spanning fifteen centuries for less than a nice restaurant meal! It’s proof that mixed lots in unexpected places often hide the best treasures.

Meet My New Old Friends: A Walk Through Time

After spreading them out under my lamp, I uncovered a miniature world tour: Roman, Judean, Kushan, and Hellenistic pieces all sharing my desk. Here’s what made the cut:

• Spanish Cob (1600s): That chunky irregular piece I first spotted, with its castle design and “8” mark—classic colonial Spanish character. These cobs wear their hand-struck origins proudly.
• Roman Quadrans (1st century BC): A pocket-sized bronze with Hercules on one side and a ship’s prow on the other. Mine’s seen some wear, but you can still make out old Herc’s profile—always check those high points first.
• Judean Prutah of Agrippa I (37-44 AD): Found two! One shows that distinctive umbrella symbol with traces of “[…]ΙΠΑ” lettering, the other three barley ears. Tiny but mighty historical punches.
• Kushan Tetradrachm (1st century AD): Likely from India, featuring a horseman waving hello on the front and a deity standing tall on the back. Even with some green crust, the artistry shines through.
• Hellenistic Coin (3rd-2nd century BC): Isis gazing right with a standing figure on the reverse. Worn but soulful—that goddess profile still whispers stories.
• Kashmiri AE Coin (11th century): My mystery guest! Faint geometric patterns point toward medieval India. Sometimes absence of detail tells its own tale.

Holding coins minted a millennium apart in one palm? That’s the magic of bulk lots. I’m already prepping display tickets to honor their journeys.

Field Notes from a Bargain Hunt

If you’re chasing similar deals, here’s what I’ve learned: First, squint at those terrible photos—look for shapes, symbols, or patina that shout “ancient!” Mixed lots priced per coin soften the risk and often deliver joy. Condition-wise, I start by checking for corrosion and design clarity (that horseman’s hand told me more than any grade). And please, jot down notes when you ID them! My scribbled observations from years ago still help me today.

This little haul reignited why I collect—each coin is a time machine you can hold. Finding history for pocket change feels like unearthing pirate gold. Off I go to refresh my charity shop bookmarks—hope your next find brings that same electric jolt of discovery!