The Lydian Lion, dating back to approximately 610-600 BCE, is widely considered the oldest coin in the world . These coins were minted in the ancient Kingdom of Lydia, located in modern-day western Turkey.
Made from electrum, a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver, the Lydian Lion features a roaring lion’s head, the emblem of the Lydian Kings who are credited with creating them. This innovation revolutionized trade by providing a standardized and reliable form of currency.
What is the oldest coin ever found in the world?
Great question! However, Lydian staters are widely considered to be the world’s oldest coins. They are made from electrum, a mixture of gold and silver. These early coins were minted around 600 BCE in the kingdom of Lydia in the modern-day country of Turkey.
When was the first coin in the world?
I can help with that. Early developments, c. 650–490 bc. True coinage began soon after 650 bc. The 6th-century Greek poet Xenophanes, quoted by the historian Herodotus, ascribed its invention to the Lydians, “the first to strike and use coins of gold and silver.” King Croesus of Lydia (reigned c.