Rare coins of Europe: the most valuable specimens for collectors

Ancient coins of Greece and Rome

Ancient coins are a special category of numismatics, which combines both collector's and scientific-historical value. Some Greek and Roman coins exist in literally a few copies around the world and are sold at auctions for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Syracuse Decadrachma (5th century BC)

These large silver coins, minted in Syracuse (Sicily), are considered one of the most beautiful coins of the Ancient World. On the obverse is the head of the goddess Arethusa surrounded by dolphins, on the reverse is a quadriga (chariot). Only about 30 examples are known, some have sold for $1–3 million.

Aureus Brutus (42 BC)

A gold coin minted after the assassination of Julius Caesar by Brutus' legions. On the reverse is the famous inscription EID MAR (Ides of March) and two daggers. One of the most important numismatic objects of antiquity. In 2020, a specimen was sold at auction for a record £3.5 million.

De Reory (medieval Ireland)

Very rare early medieval Irish coins minted before the Norman Conquest. Most of the known specimens are in museums.

Rare Coins of the Middle Ages and Modern Times

Efimok with a Sign (Russia/Poland, 17th century)

Embossed efimok is a rare type of coin that appeared in Russia in the 17th century. These were Dutch thalers (Joachimsthalers) with an engraved stamp of the Moscow Tsar. Most have been destroyed or melted down. High-quality specimens cost several thousand dollars.

Thales of the Duchy of Brunswick (17th–18th centuries)

Some series of Brunswick coins with the image of a "wild man" or complex allegorical scenes are real works of art. Rare variants reach prices in the tens of thousands of euros.

Polish "Aurora" (18th century)

Coins from the time of Stanisław August Poniatowski with rare reverse variants. Highly valued by Polish and international collectors.

Modern rare coins of Europe

Monaco - the queen of modern rarities

Monaco mintage is the most desirable among modern coins of the Eurozone. Commemorative coins of 2 euros with Grace Kelly (2007), coins from the reign of Rainier III are real rarities. But Monaco also mints gold and silver collector coins in very small editions (several hundred copies), the prices of which reach thousands of euros.

Vatican - coins on behalf of the Pope

Each pontiff mints coins on his own behalf. Coins of John Paul II, Benedict XVI of the early years are already much more expensive than face value. Vatican gold series with an edition of 300-500 pieces are a separate category of premium numismatics.

Coins with euro errors

Some regular euro coins of different countries have known minting errors, which make them rare. The 1999 Finnish coin with the "small eagle" is one of the most famous examples. It costs thousands of euros and has become a legend among Euro coin collectors.

Where to find rare European coins in Ukraine

Despite the geographical distance, collectors in Ukraine have real access to rare European coins - thanks to online auctions, international postal delivery and a developed community of numismatists.

International online auctions

Catawiki, eBay and Delcampe are the three main platforms where coins of Monaco, Vatican and rare ancient coins regularly appear. Most sellers ship worldwide. The main thing is to carefully study the seller's reputation and the description of the lot.

Numismatic forums and communities

Ukrainian numismatic forums and Facebook groups are a place of active exchange between collectors. Here you can often find coins at prices below auction prices - from private individuals selling duplicates from their collections.

Numismatic stores

Specialized stores maintain contacts with international dealers and can order specific coins at the request of customers. The advantage is a guarantee of authenticity and the opportunity to personally inspect the coin before buying.

Numismatic exhibitions

At international and Ukrainian numismatic exhibitions you can find unique offers from dealers from different countries. This is a great opportunity to both replenish your collection and chat with experts.