Travelers' Riches: 6 Countries Where to Find the Best Coins

Coins are the true guardians of history. With their help you can discern the traces of ancient civilizations, economic transformations and cultural changes. For travelers and collectors, coins become a kind of “keys” to the past, which can be found in the most unexpected corners of the world. Like collectors striving for perfection in Mercury dime grading, travelers explore markets, museums and ancient streets in search of unique specimens with equal trepidation. And their journey through historical countries similarly turns into a real adventure, where each coin tells its own story.

Here we will talk about those countries that are ideal for finding rare coins. Be you are passionate about history or just want to bring home an unusual souvenir, these destinations will surprise you with their riches.

Coins - A Bridge Between Cultures and Ages

Every country keeps its unique coin treasures that reflect its history, culture and traditions. Finding such coins can be both an exciting adventure and an opportunity to touch the past. Here you will learn about those countries where travelers and collectors can find the most unusual and valuable coins. Find out where to look for ancient drachmas, Ottoman tugras or Japanese kobans, and get tips on how to make your search a success.

France: Coins of Revolutions and Empires

France is a land of romance, rich history and coins imbued with the spirit of great change. Here you can find antique francs from Napoleon's time, medals from the French Revolution, and even rare Carolingian coins.

Where to look for significant coins? First of all, check out the Saint-Ouen flea market in Paris. This largest antiques market in Europe offers a huge variety of coins from the 18th and 19th centuries. Prices range from a few euros for common specimens to thousands for rare coins. Another good option would be the medieval fairs in Arjaž. These small markets at the foot of castles allow you to find unique coins surrounded by picturesque nature and medieval architecture.

Lifehack: Study French coin catalogs before visiting the markets. For example, Napoleon III eagle coins can cost up to $500 in good condition.

Italy: The Ancient Splendor of Rome

Italy is a country where history literally lies beneath your feet. Ancient Roman coins are often found on excavations. A hoard of over 52,000 Roman coins was once found in England and was valued at £320,000.

Roman coins such as denarius, sestertius and aureus are often found by professional collectors and casual tourists alike.

Where to look:

1. At the Campo de' Fiori market in Rome, you can find coins from different eras, starting with antiquity. Be sure to haggle - prices can drop by 20-30%.

2. The Vatican Museum of Numismatics is also a place to visit. Here you can look for inspiration and learn more about the rare specimens that can be found in the market.

Tip: If you plan to search for coins on your own, research Italy's laws on searching with metal detectors and archaeological finds. A special permit will be required to legally use metal detectors, and artifacts found over 50 years old must be turned in to state institutions. However, private markets and antique shops are a great way to add to your collection without risk.

Greece: Ancient Drachmas and Myths

Greece is a country where every coin is a legend. Ancient Greek drachmas with images of gods and heroes such as Athena and Hercules have both historical and artistic value. By the way, the coins of the Athenian state of the 5th century BC with the image of an owl are among the most popular among collectors.

Here you can visit the Monastiraki market in Athens (which is famous for its antiques) including coins from the ancient Greek period. Moreover, do not neglect a visit to the archaeological museums to learn more about the history and buy replica coins that are perfect for souvenirs.

Lifehack: When buying coins at markets, ask the sellers about the history of their origin. Sometimes you can learn surprising details.

Turkey: East and West in One Flask

Turkey combines the legacy of Byzantium and the Ottoman Empire. The coins of this country are valuable both for their beauty and historical significance. For example, coins from the time of Suleiman the Magnificent, which often contain Arabic inscriptions describing his achievements, are of interest to collectors.

Where to look:

1. Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Here, coins decorated with Ottoman tugras - symbols of the sultans' power - are sold.

2. The ruins of Ephesus. Visiting this ancient city sometimes allows you to find ancient coins, although their search requires special permits.

Tip: At the Grand Bazaar do not rush to buy. Look at several stalls and compare prices.

Great Britain: History of Kings and Queens

Britain is famous for coins that reflect the development of the monarchy. From pence from the time of William the Conqueror to modern day gold dollar gold decrees, each coin bears the mark of an era.

Where should you go in search of riches? The first place to visit is Portobello Road Market in London. This market is known for its wide selection of coins, e. g., rare examples from the George III era. You can also check out Spink & Son Coin Auctions, the perfect place to look for collectible coins.

Interesting fact: Here you can find silver shillings from the Elizabeth I era (1558-1603), which are often valued at $2,000 and up.

Japan: Samurai Traditions

Japan is a country where every coin reflects respect for tradition. Kobans, gold coins from the Edo period, and early Meiji coins are true masterpieces. By the way, Japanese Kobans were often given as gifts as a sign of respect, and their price today can be as high as $10,000.

To find worthwhile coins visit Kyoto's antique markets so you can find coins that were used by the samurai. Moreover, at the Toyosu market in Tokyo you can sometimes find rare coins.

Tip: When looking for and buying coins, learn some Japanese language phrases or use a translator to understand the inscriptions on the coins. Or you can do something simpler - download the Coin ID Scanner app. It will help you identify any foreign coins and find out as much information about them as possible (date of issue, composition, value and even market value) so you can make the right decision before buying.

Rare Coins: Value and Features

Each coin is unique in its own way. The value of such coins depends on their age, material, condition and historical significance. For collectors and tourists who want to invest or just have a passion for prospecting, it is important to know the approximate prices and features of coins to understand their true value. Check out this table to help you better navigate the world of rare coins.

Value and features of rare coins

Tip: Coins in good condition (no scratches or damage) are worth an order of magnitude more. Be sure to use a magnifying glass or numismatic loupe to check the condition. And keep in mind that it's best for beginning collectors to start with medium-value coins, such as British sovereigns or Ottoman coins, and acquire more expensive pieces over time.

Traveling with Meaning

Coins found while traveling are not just finds, but a chance to see the world from a new angle. So we hope that each of your routes becomes the beginning of a new exciting search.