10-25-2006, 12:55 AM
Fake coins are a major problem, but with a trained eye most are able to spot.
As an internet coin collector/occasional seller, I personally see no problem with buying ancient coins over the internet. Usually these are metal detecting finds in the ground, and usually they are not sold as a thousand bunch. I have never bought more than 10 coins in a single bunch.
Now, to the major ethical argument on buying "illegal" coins. By buying them, they are preserved by me and respected. I learn their history. I teach some others about their history. Many when dug up are just thrown into the back room of a museum never to be seen. What is good about that?
Andrew
As an internet coin collector/occasional seller, I personally see no problem with buying ancient coins over the internet. Usually these are metal detecting finds in the ground, and usually they are not sold as a thousand bunch. I have never bought more than 10 coins in a single bunch.
Now, to the major ethical argument on buying "illegal" coins. By buying them, they are preserved by me and respected. I learn their history. I teach some others about their history. Many when dug up are just thrown into the back room of a museum never to be seen. What is good about that?
Andrew
Andrew James Beaton
Looking for ancient coins of Gallienus, Postumus, Victorinus, Tetricus I and II, and the Severan Era!
Looking for ancient coins of Gallienus, Postumus, Victorinus, Tetricus I and II, and the Severan Era!
