How to Identify Ancient Greek Coins – A Collector’s Guide

Well to identify ancient Greek coins are among one of the most fascinating and beautiful jobs in the Numismatic field. Their intricate designs, historical significance, and wide variety make them a favorite among collectors. However, identifying and authenticating these coins can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to recognize and classify ancient Greek coins.

1. Introduction – Why Identifying Greek Coins is Important

Ancient Greek coins were minted across hundreds of city-states and kingdoms, each with its own unique symbols and styles. Identifying these coins correctly allows collectors and historians to determine their origin, age, and value. Additionally, distinguishing genuine coins from fakes is crucial to ensure authenticity.

2. Key Features of Ancient Greek Coins

To correctly identify an ancient Greek coin, collectors must analyze several key features:

a) Inscriptions & Legends

Greek coins typically feature inscriptions in Ancient Greek, often naming the city-state or ruler who issued the coin.
Some coins display abbreviations or monograms, which help identify their origin.

b) Metal Composition

Silver Coins: Drachma, tetradrachm, and obol coins were mostly made of silver.
Gold Coins: Staters and some later Greek issues were minted in gold.
Bronze Coins: Used for small denominations and local transactions.

c) Coin Weight & Diameter

Greek coins followed specific weight standards, which varied by region.
Example: The Athenian Tetradrachm typically weighs around 17.2 grams.

d) Artistic Style & Imagery

Many coins feature gods, heroes, or animals symbolizing the issuing city-state.
The artistic style evolved from archaic (simple, rigid designs) to classical (detailed, lifelike images) and later Hellenistic (more dynamic, with intricate details).

3. Greek Coin Denominations & Their Characteristics

Greek coins had different denominations based on weight and metal type. Here are the most common:

Different city-states issued their own versions, with variations in weight and design.

4. Mint Marks & City Symbols on Greek Coins

Each city-state minted coins with unique symbols that represented their heritage. Below are some notable examples:

Identifying these symbols can help trace the origin of a coin.

5. How to Authenticate Ancient Greek Coins

a) Surface Analysis

Genuine coins show natural wear and oxidation (patina).
Fake coins may have unnatural luster, casting bubbles, or signs of modern machining.

b) Edge Examination

Ancient Greek coins were struck, leaving a smooth or slightly irregular edge.
Cast counterfeit coins often have a visible seam along the edge.

c) Weight & Size Check

A real Athenian Tetradrachm should weigh around 17.2 grams.
If the weight is significantly off, the coin may be a fake or a different denomination.

d) XRF Metal Testing

Advanced testing like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) can determine the metal composition and detect modern forgeries.

e) Professional Verification

Experts and numismatic grading services like NGC Ancients and PCGS can certify a coin’s authenticity.

6. Notable Greek Mints & Their Coins

Some Greek city-states were famous for producing high-quality coins. Here are a few:

a) Athens – “Owls” of Athena

Coin: Athenian Tetradrachm
Obverse: Helmeted Athena
Reverse: Owl and “ΑΘΕ” inscription
Mint: Athens

b) Corinth – Pegasus Staters

Coin: Corinthian Stater
Obverse: Pegasus (winged horse)
Reverse: Athena’s head
Mint: Corinth

c) Syracuse – Masterpieces of Greek Art

Coin: Syracusan Decadrachm
Obverse: Arethusa surrounded by dolphins
Reverse: Charioteer driving a quadriga
Mint: Syracuse

7. Where to Buy & Sell Greek Coins

Collectors can find authentic Greek coins through:

Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, CNG, Stack’s Bowers
Online Marketplaces: VCoins, MA-Shops, NumisBids
Reputable Dealers: Buy from certified numismatic dealers to avoid counterfeits.

8. Conclusion – Best Practices for Collectors

Always check inscriptions, metal type, and weight to identify a coin.
Study the mint marks and symbols to determine the issuing city-state.
Use authentication methods like surface analysis, weight testing, and expert verification.
Buy from reputable sources to avoid counterfeits.

By mastering these identification techniques, collectors can confidently build a collection of genuine Ancient Greek coins!

Identify Ancient Greek Coins

Identify Ancient Greek Coins