Have you ever wondered what the die looked like back when coins were made by striking the die with a hammer? Well, don't wonder anymore! The following image is of a Byzantine (6th century A.D.) iron die created to strike bronze Folis during the reign of Justin I (1518-1527). It was used at the Nicomedia Mint. Dimensions of the die are: 88mm long by 47mm wide. It's octagonal form commences 35mm at the face and widens to 40mm at center, then tapers down to 33mm. http://imagedb.coinarchives.com/img/cng/059/big/592253.jpg Hope this trivia was interesting, Clinker
You don't see ancient dies to often. John Jencek does have one for sale on his site right now. http://www.ancient-coins.com/itemdetail.asp?type=S&item=5288
Clinker,that's a very rare find to see.One occasionally sees a medieval coin die,but a Byzantine coin die is a very rare item in itself. Aidan.
Clinker,it would be cool if you had that in YOUR collection.Even the counterfeit coin dies of the period are very interesting. Aidan.