I acquired this Celtic stater at a show in Harrisburg yesterday. Curious little thing - dated to the 1st century BC but still imitating the Macedonian types of the 4th century? I find that odd. Why wouldn't Celts in this period be imitating Roman types and denominations? Also, the dealer (who is an avid collector of the coins of Britain), informed me that this type is considered the first coinage of Britain. Can anyone corroborate that factoid? Armorica was northwest Gaul, but evidently the tribes of the region migrated to the western coast of Britain as well. Where would the coin have been minted? I found a book that appears to answer my questions so I bought it for a mere $1,056.85, see here. Just kidding, I bought the one that was discounted by 96% at $41.98. I'm sure it's full of good stuff but a thousand bucks seems a bit steep. In the meantime, if anyone knows more about this coin that I do, which isn't much, please chime in and educate me.
That book price is hilarious. I've seen some crazy prices for books on Amazon, but that one takes the cake so far! As to the coin, these are really neat. For those who may not have seen it, here's a story about a truly ENORMOUS hoard of those that was found on Jersey in the Channel Islands a few years ago. To call that find "truly amazing" would be an understatement.
Bonnie score! from Chris Rudd: Britain’s first regular home-made coins were bronze coins copying those of Massalia (Marseille). Made in Cantion (Kent) c.120-100 BC, they circulated alongside gold coins imported from Gaul: Cool book for a plus info:
Neat coin! I was checking out the wikipedia page on Amorica, they have this coin pictured there.. Same obverse, but I can't figure out what is going on with the reverse?
Hmmmm... Thanks @RAGNAROK for the Celtic coin info... I am beginning to turn my focus towards Celtic Coinage as the Celtic peoples fascinate me. I know there is a wonderful Dealer in Britain that specializes in them as I have spoken with them before. I met a few serious collectors that have vast collections. I only have a few coins, but I need to start diving further into the History... then be able to expand into coins representing their (Our) Histories.
