Atrebates and Regini, Caratacus (c. AD 40-51) AV Stater, 5.35g.

ANCIENT COINS

Ancient Coins - History in Your Hands

Ancient coins aren't just old currency – they're direct connections to the greatest civilisations in human history, capturing the artistry, power, and stories of empires that shaped our world. Whether you're an experienced collector drawn to specific periods or someone who's inherited coins with extraordinary history, these pieces represent some of the most beautiful and historically significant collectables ever created.

Our specialists understand that ancient coins connect you to moments of incredible historical drama. We're passionate collectors ourselves, with deep knowledge of the craftsmanship, historical contexts, and market factors that make ancient numismatics so compelling

Foundations of Civilisation

From both Greek and Roman eras, the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient coins tells remarkable stories from extraordinary periods in our history. There is a rich variety of ancient coins, and while rarity is important, the condition and appearance of the coins is key to determining value at auction.

Thinking About Selling?

Our ancient coin specialists are here to help - simply tell us about your collection, share some photos, and we'll guide you through every step with care and expertise.

FREE valuation

Your Next Find Awaits

Join collectors worldwide in our upcoming auctions featuring remarkable coins with fascinating stories.

Upcoming Auctions

Lina Fitzjames Valuation Stanley Gibbons Baldwin's

Why Ancient Coin Collectors Choose Us

Selling ancient coins requires understanding their historical significance and the international market that values them. At auction with us, your ancient coins reach collectors worldwide who understand their importance as direct links to classical civilisation.

We know how to present ancient material to the international collector base that spans the USA, Middle East, Europe and beyond. Our detailed cataloguing ensures collectors worldwide can appreciate the full significance of what you have.

Recently Sold Ancient Coins

Ancient treasures that have been cherished for years or inherited with wonder deserve homes with collectors who understand their extraordinary historical significance. Here are just some of those realisations:

Kingdom of Macedon, Philip II (359‑336 BC) AV Stater, mint of Pella, c. 345‑340 BC, 8.55g.

SOLD FOR £8,000

Carausius (AD 286-293) Silver Denarius, RSR, 4.00g.

SOLD FOR £8,000

Kings of Pergamon, Philetairos (282-263 BC) AR Tetradrachm, mint of Pergamon, struck c. 269/8-263 BC, 16.97g. Diademed head

SOLD FOR £6,500

Sicily, Siculo‑Punic, Entella (c. 320/15-300 BC) AR Tetradrachm, 17.27g. Wreathed head of Arethusa facing right, surrounded

SOLD FOR £5,200

Inside the World of Ancient Coins

Step into our ancient coin department and you'll discover specialists who are historians, archaeologists, and storytellers. From newly discovered hoards to fresh research revealing unknown mints, the ancient coin world constantly evolves, and our team stays at the forefront.

Our Team

Neil Paisley

Managing Director - Baldwin's Coins

NPaisley@baldwin.co.uk

020 7930 6879

Specialist

Dominic Chorney

Head of Ancient Coins

dchorney@baldwin.co.uk

020 7930 6879

Specialist

Simon Lindsey-Parkin

Coin Auction Manager

slindseyparkin@baldwin.co.uk

Specialist

Lina Fitzjames

Junior Numismatist

lfitzjames@baldwin.co.uk

Valuation Days

Bedford Coin Valuation Day

28th Oct 2025

Cranfield Management Centre

Valuation Days

Newbury Coin Valuation Day

23rd Sept 2025

The Chequers Hotel

Upcoming Auctions

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Two Great Ancient Coin Collecting Traditions

Sicily, Syracuse, Philistis (wife of Hieron II, 275-215 BC) AR 16 Litrai, c. 240-218/5 BC, 13.38g.

Ancient Greek Coins - Symbols of power and culture

One of the first territories to produce coins, featuring exquisite craftsmanship and often depicting the patron deities of the city-states that issued them. From Sicily's most beautiful coins to the widespread influence of Philip II of Macedon, Greek coins showcase artistic achievement that has never been surpassed.

The market is currently relatively stable, and condition and appearance matter more than rarity with these coins. Our specialists understand what makes Greek coins special and how to present them to collectors who appreciate their artistic and historical significance.

Ancient Roman Coins - Seven Centuries of Empire

Coins spanning seven centuries provide infinite variety, reflecting the spread of Roman culture from Sudan to Britain, Spain to Syria. Britain was part of this empire for nearly 400 years, making Roman coins particularly fascinating for British collectors.

Whether it's coins referring to Roman Britain or pieces actually struck in the London mint, these coins tell the story of the ancient world's greatest empire. Our specialists track which Roman coins are gaining collector momentum in this international market.

Ready to sell with us?

1. Request an estimate

Share photographs and details about your items with our specialists, who will provide you with a free expert valuation.

2. Consign

If you wish to proceed, our experts will guide you through the simple auction process from start to finish.

3. Sell

Your items will be expertly catalogued and marketed to our extensive collector database, designed to achieve the best results.

Request Your Free Valuation

Frequently Asked Questions about Ancient Coins

Authentic ancient coins were struck by hand with a hammer to impress designs from engraved dies onto the metal surface. Each ancient coin displays unique striking characteristics resulting from the process. There are many methods by which fakes are made and therefore various ways to detect them. Our specialists use advanced authentication methods, including microscopic and stylistic analysis, metal testing, and comparison with documented examples, to verify authenticity.

Value depends on rarity, historical significance, condition, and provenance. Coins of famous rulers like Alexander the Great or Julius Caesar command premiums. Mint location, artistic quality, and historical context matter greatly. Even common coins in exceptional condition can be valuable, while rare types in poor condition can exceed expectations.

Generally, coins are considered ancient if produced in the Western world from 650 BC to approximately AD 500. This is a broad definition which includes Greek city-states, Roman Republic, Imperatorial and Empire, and contemporary civilisations. Coins struck after AD 500 are not included with the exception of those of the Byzantine Empire (AD 491-1453).

Never clean ancient coins yourself. Cleaning can destroy patina and surface details that collectors value. Professional conservators understand appropriate techniques, but even they proceed cautiously. Original surfaces, even with dirt or corrosion, are preferred. Our specialists assess whether professional conservation might benefit specific coins' presentation and value.

Provenance is the documented ownership history of your coins and often includes details of previous sales through auction houses and dealers. Coins with pre-1970s provenance command higher prices, as do coins from famous collections or published in reference books. Old dealer or auction house tickets, museum deaccession papers and collector notes add significant value and collector confidence.

Grading is based primarily on the effects of wear from circulation, with less consideration given to the effects of preservation and conservation. Defects original to the coin at the point of minting, such as weak/flat strike, off-centre strike, worn dies or multiple strikes will not affect the grade. Possible grades from highest to lowest are: Fleur De Coin (FDC), Mint State, Near Mint State, Good Extremely Fine, Extremely Fine, Near Extremely Fine, Good Very Fine, Very Fine, Near Very Fine, Good Fine, Fine.

Well known historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Marcus Aurelius, and notorious emperors such Caligula, Nero, command strong interest. Iconic coins such as the Owl tetradrachms of Athens and the Turtles of Aegina, are also highly sought after.

Store coins in acid-free holders in stable, dry conditions. Handle minimally, using cotton gloves when necessary. Avoid PVC-containing materials which can damage surfaces over time. Individual coin envelopes or archival-quality albums work well. Well-made coin cabinets are also an excellent way to store coins. Maintain consistent temperature and humidity. Document storage locations and photograph coins for insurance and identification purposes.

Preserve all purchase receipts, auction catalogues, previous valuations, export permits, and collection documentation. Photographs showing provenance, old collection tickets, and family history add significant value. Academic publications referencing your coins, museum loan records, or exhibition catalogues enhance importance. Even handwritten notes about acquisition circumstances can provide valuable provenance information.

Getting started is simple - fill in the valuation form above with photos and details of your coins. Alternatively, call us on +44 (0) 208 092 5856, email auctions@sgbaldwins.com, or visit us at 399 Strand, London, WC2R 0LP. Our ancient coin specialists will guide you through the process and answer questions about your collection.

ANCIENT COINS

Ancient Coins - History in Your Hands

Foundations of Civilisation

Thinking About Selling?

Your Next Find Awaits

Why Ancient Coin Collectors Choose Us

Recently Sold Ancient Coins

Kingdom of Macedon, Philip II (359‑336 BC) AV Stater, mint of Pella, c. 345‑340 BC, 8.55g.

Carausius (AD 286-293) Silver Denarius, RSR, 4.00g.

Kings of Pergamon, Philetairos (282-263 BC) AR Tetradrachm, mint of Pergamon, struck c. 269/8-263 BC, 16.97g. Diademed head

Sicily, Siculo‑Punic, Entella (c. 320/15-300 BC) AR Tetradrachm, 17.27g. Wreathed head of Arethusa facing right, surrounded

Inside the World of Ancient Coins

Upcoming Auctions

Two Great Ancient Coin Collecting Traditions

Ancient Greek Coins - Symbols of power and culture

Ancient Roman Coins - Seven Centuries of Empire

Ready to sell with us?

1. Request an estimate

2. Consign

3. Sell

Frequently Asked Questions about Ancient Coins

How do I know if my ancient coins are authentic?

What makes an ancient coin valuable?

How old does a coin need to be to be considered ancient?

Should I clean my ancient coins before selling?

What is provenance and why does it matter?

How do you determine the grade of an ancient coin?

What are the most popular ancient coin collecting areas?

How should I store and handle ancient coins?

What documentation should I keep with my ancient coins?

How can I sell my ancient coins?