The first coins were made around 650 BC in the Kingdom of Lydia. They were made of electrum (approximately 55% gold and 45% silver) and had a lions head punched on one side. This early age of coinage is known as the Archaic period.
The Classical period followed after the Persian Wars around 480 BC. The Athenian Owl is probably the most recognized coin of the era.
The conquests of Alexander the Great ushered in the Hellenistic periods in about 330 BC and lasted until around the first century BC when Roman influence absorbed the Greek World.
Choice Very Fine. Philip "The Brother-Loving" defeated his brother in battle, and was soon in his turn defeated by Tigranes of Armenia. Well centered and struck, with very light toning. One of the last issues of a great Kingdom.
Extra Fine. Philip "The Brother-Loving" defeated his brother in battle, and was soon defeated by Tigranes of Armenia. Obverse, diademed head right. Reverse, Zeus seated, holding Nike and scepter. Wonderful style, well centered and struck.
NGC Choice Fine. Year 2 (AD 133/4). Vine leaf and palm tree.
NGC VF. (AD 134/5). Vine leaf and palm tree.
NGC Choice Fine. Shield and Khantaros.
NGC Fine. Good strike and clean surfaces.
Choice XF. Nymph Larissa.
NGC VF. Quadripartite.