Numismatics Catalog

Austria

2019

This commemorative gold coin was issued by the Austrian Mint in 2019 as part of the “Ancient Civilizations” series, dedicated to the cultures of early human history. The coin focuses on Mesopotamia, often regarded as the cradle of civilization. One side features a stylized portrait of a Mesopotamian ruler with symbolic elements drawn from ancient art and cuneiform writing, while the reverse depicts a powerful bull’s head inspired by Mesopotamian mythology and temple sculpture. Struck in fine gold with a denomination of 100 Euro, the coin highlights the cultural, artistic, and historical legacy of one of the world’s earliest civilizations.

This ancient gold daric was issued during the Achaemenid Empire and is among the earliest standardized gold coins in history. The obverse depicts the Persian king or hero shown as a kneeling or running archer, holding a bow and spear or dagger, symbolizing royal authority and military power. The reverse is characteristically irregular and incuse, reflecting early minting techniques without a formal reverse design. Gold darics were widely used across the empire for military payments and international trade, representing the economic strength and administrative sophistication of ancient Persia.

United States

1792

The Half Disme is one of the earliest coins produced for the United States and is widely regarded as the first circulating silver coin of the new nation. Struck in 1792, prior to the formal operation of the United States Mint, the coin features a left-facing portrait of Liberty on the obverse with the inscription “LIB. PAR. OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY,” reflecting Enlightenment ideals. The Half Disme played a foundational role in establishing the U.S. monetary system and represents a key milestone in early American numismatic history.

United States

1787

The Brasher Doubloon is one of the most famous and valuable early American gold coins, privately struck in 1787 by New York goldsmith Ephraim Brasher. The obverse features an American eagle with a shield, surrounded by a wreath and the inscription “UNUM E PLURIBUS,” while the reverse depicts a rising sun over a mountain with the Latin motto “NOVA EBORACA COLUMBIA EXCELSIOR,” symbolizing New York and the emerging nation. Struck before the establishment of the United States Mint, the Brasher Doubloon represents a foundational artifact of early American coinage and economic history.