Virtual Whistler

The study of Numismatics deals with coins. Collection of coins is an exciting hobby.

The invention of coinage is attributed to the Lydian's, now a part of Turkey. During the 7th century B.C the coins were stamped and had a guaranteed weight. Those coins were made of electrum, an alloy of gold and silver. Crosus of Lydia issued the first gold and silver coins in the 6th century B.C.

Greeks as well as Bulgarians began coinage from the 6th century B.C. Later copper was used for making coins. Greek coinage lasted for 500 years. The Romans learned it from them. The Celtic and German tribes began the coinage system by the 2nd century B.C.

The Chinese made bronze coins in the shapes of knives and hoes.

When metals were available in plenty, the skilled artists made good coins. By the 15th century the art of coinage was improved.

Coins are made by punching a piece of metal with design of a coin on it. Moulds were used by Chinese.

'Mint' is the place where coins are made. Usually coins have pictures and a little writing on them. The milled edge is essential.

India has produced varieties of coins at various times.