Ancient Coins: What About Spartan Coins?
6 hours ago
- #Ancient Sparta
- #Greek Coinage
- #Numismatics
- Sparta did not issue coins during its peak, using iron money to discourage wealth accumulation and focus on war.
- Spartans used other Greek coins, like those from Elis for the Olympics and Persian darics, due to alliances.
- Spartan kings such as Areus and Cleomenes III issued rare coins for mercenaries and modernization, with portraits and local symbols.
- After joining the Achaean League, Sparta issued standardized league coins, though they were scarce due to economic decline.
- Under Roman rule, Sparta issued bronze coins with Roman emperors' portraits, with the last coins dating to the 3rd century CE.
- Spartan coins are rare and valuable, with royal coins commanding high prices, while Achaean League and Roman bronzes are more affordable.