"Money may seem hopelessly mundane and culturally meaningless, but it has dominated--and documented--world history since the time of the ancient Greeks. This heavily illustrated book provides a spirited account of the first coinages and their living descendants in our pockets and purses. It explains how people from Jesus to The Beatles have used numismatics to explore the social, political, economic, and religious history of the world"--
This wonderful sourcebook showcases the most popular and collectible foreign coins from around the world--including uncirculated mint coins and rare used coins--all evaluated, graded, and priced. A fast-find coin index lists thousands of prices, reflecting trends and sales. Photos. Previously annotated in June 1996 Advance as The Official Blackbook Price Guide to Foreign Coins.
Coins have occupied a vital role in trade and society since their very first usage in the ancient kingdoms of Turkey, China and India. This unparalleled world reference guide turns this complex history into an accessible chronicle, with coins illustrated from every coin-issuing country in the world. Through the course of these information-packed pages and 2500 color images, the reader can travel more than eight millennia, and gain inspiration on how and where to start a country or themed collection.
Impressive in size, scope and detail unparalleled in the market, the 2020 Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, provides the most compelling and complete catalog to 20th Century coins in the world. You've come to rely on this mammoth reference for the most up-to-date pricing and coin detail, as well as the most complete and insightful review of available and collectable world coins. A worldwide network of 120 experts continues to uncover collector coin issues never before published. For the collector or researcher attempting to identify world coins, this is the perfect single source. Inside this one-of-a-kind catalog, you'll find: • One million accurate coin prices--empowering you to make informed buying or selling decisions. • MS65 and PR65 values for much of the catalog • Detailed coin information unmatched in the hobby, making identification a snap • 60,000+ images, making the catalog the most visual reference on the market • Globally accepted KM reference numbers key to identification What's more, coins struck in gold, platinum and silver are detailed with: • Total coin weight • Fineness • Actual precious metal weight
Collecting stamps and coins - known to the world as philately and numismatics - are among the most enduring hobbies of all time, and this comprehensive guide helps explain why. It is both a stunning visual compendium that illustrates how these collectables have evolved, country-by-country, from their origins to the present day, as well as a practical guide to identification, categorization, care and assessing value. It contains expert practical advice on identifying key features, and determining condition and value, plus guidelines on competitive exhibiting or on-line trading. This is an essential companion for every collector and enthusiast.