Collector Guides
Notes for collectors from three decades in the ancient coin trade: how to judge authenticity, and the history behind the coins we handle most.
How to Tell Whether an Ancient Coin Is Genuine
How to spot fake ancient coins: weight, casting marks, struck forgeries, patina and provenance — a practical guide from a New York dealer since 1995.
The Coins of Zenobia and Vaballathus of Palmyra
A collector’s guide to the coins of Queen Zenobia and her son Vaballathus: the joint issues with Aurelian, the rare independent coins of 272, and what to look for.
A Buyer’s Guide to Byzantine Gold Solidi
How to read, judge and collect Byzantine gold solidi: officina letters, mints, landmark types from Justinian to Leontius, and what to check before you buy.
Coins of Ancient Judaea: From the Hasmoneans to Bar Kokhba
A guide to the coins of ancient Judaea: Hasmonean prutot, Herod, Pontius Pilate, the shekels of Tyre and of the First Revolt, and the Bar Kokhba sela.