This is the definitive illustrated reference to the worlds greatest coins & a professional guide to building a spectacular collection featuring over 3000 colour images. This is the ultimate expert guide to coins & coin collecting. This is an in-depth introduction to the origins anatomy & usage of coins looks at the birth of the worlds first currencies. Practical advice on evaluating grade & condition that will enable the amateur to gauge the value of their latest acquisitions & step-by-step techniques show how to restore & preserve coins of all ages. The fully-illustrated country-by-country directory contains concise & lively histories of modern-day territories & ancient regimes plus engrossing stories of some of the most remarkable coins in existence. This is a full-colour global guide to world coinage from its origins in the 7th century BC to the present day featuring coins & collectables for 200 countries. It provides an expert guide to understanding the value & identity of coins with insights into dates metals denominations shapes mintmarks & portraits. This thorough introduction details the history of coin production around the world from the origins of coinage in the seventh century BC to its subsequent development by Alexander the Great Cleopatra & Napoleon through to its role in todays society. It
Includes:: over 3000 life-size colour images of wonderful coins including the boat-shaped issues of ancient Byzantium the bronze tokens of the Chinese dynasties the emergency World War One issues the Vatican coins & many more.