Is This Athenian Tetradrachm Fake? My Deep Dive into Authenticity
July 1, 2025My Deep Dive into Greek Art, Fame, and Fake News: The Tyche of Antioch
July 1, 2025
You know that feeling when you finally slide that last coin into place? I’m still grinning ear to ear after completing my Twelve Caesars set! It took me nearly a year, but every late-night auction and coin show was worth it. As someone who’s always been fascinated by ancient Rome, hunting down these twelve emperors became a personal mission that taught me more than any history book ever could—and didn’t empty my wallet either.
How I Built the Set Without Going Broke
Right from the start, I gave myself two rules: keep it under $2,000 and mix things up. I ended up with six silver coins and six bronzes, half struck in Rome and half from provincial mints like Antioch. This approach saved me a bundle—yes, that Augustus denarius cost more than I’d like to admit, but I balanced it out with steals like an Otho bronze I found buried in a lot of 18 Antioch coins. If I learned anything, it’s this:
- Variety is your friend when budget matters
- Bulk lots often hide gems—especially with bronzes
- Mid-grade coins with clear details offer the sweet spot between cost and eye appeal
The Coins That Made the Journey Memorable
Each emperor’s coin has its own personality, but a few really stick with me. That Augustus denarius feels like holding history itself—you can almost see the Republic turning into Empire. Then there’s my bargain Otho bronze from Antioch, a reminder that sometimes the best finds come when you least expect them. And finishing with Vespasian’s victory denarius? Pure magic. It felt like the coin was celebrating right along with me! Along the way, I discovered that slightly worn coins with readable legends often give you the most bang for your buck.
Tips If You’re Starting Your Own Set
Grab Suetonius’ “The Twelve Caesars” before you begin—it turns dry history into living drama (though maybe skip Tiberius’ chapter before bed!). Some folks debate including Julius Caesar, but I stuck with the traditional twelve emperors for focus. You’ll see Marc Antony coins pop up, but they pull you off track. Silver holds value well, but bronzes are perfect for filling tricky gaps. Check local dealers and auction sites regularly, and remember: the slow build makes each new addition sweeter.
Where My Collection Heads Next
With my Caesars resting comfortably in their tray, I’ve got my sights on an Athenian owl tetradrachm. It’s that iconic piece every ancient coin lover dreams of owning someday. Whatever you collect next, never forget that half the joy is in the hunt itself. Here’s to your coins telling great stories!
