The first coins were invented in Lydia, an ancient kingdom in what is now modern-day Turkey . They appeared sometime in the 7th century BC , possibly around 610-600 BC.
These early coins, like the famous Lydian Lion, were made from electrum, a natural alloy of gold and silver. They featured simple designs, often depicting a lion’s head, the emblem of the Lydian kings.
The introduction of coins was a major innovation that revolutionized trade by providing a standardized and convenient medium of exchange, replacing the inefficient barter system that was previously the primary method of exchange.
What was the first coin ever made?
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 1 coin made?
The original, round £1 coin was introduced in 1983. It replaced the Bank of England £1 note, which ceased to be issued at the end of 1984 and was removed from circulation on 11 March 1988, though still redeemable at the bank’s offices, like all English banknotes.