In the world of coins, auctions can bring exciting surprises, especially when ancient coins are involved. One of the most talked-about coins recently was a fourrée version of the famous EID MAR denarius. This coin, which is a silver-plated copy, was sold at Baldwin’s auction on May 29 for a significant amount. In this article, we will explore the details of this coin, its historical significance, and what makes it a popular choice among collectors.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Coin Type | Fourrée (Silver-Plated Copy) |
Coin Name | EID MAR Denarius |
Auction Date | May 29, 2024 |
Auction House | Baldwin’s |
Sale Price | £9,600 (approximately $12,211 USD) |
Estimated Value | £12,000 ($15,265 USD) |
Historical Significance | Linked to the assassination of Julius Caesar (44 B.C.) |
Minted By | Marcus Junius Brutus |
Condition | Good Very Fine; some breaks in silver plating |
Production Quality | High; thick layer of silver plating |
Known Examples | Approximately 16 EID MAR fourrées known |
What is a Fourrée Coin?
A fourrée is a type of counterfeit coin made from a base metal (like copper) and plated with silver. These coins were common in ancient times when people created replicas of valuable coins to sell or trade. The EID MAR denarius is one of the most famous ancient coins because of its link to Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 B.C.
The Auction Details
In Baldwin’s May 29 auction in London, the fourrée EID MAR sold for £9,600 (approximately $12,211), including a 20% buyer’s fee. This price was below its estimated value of £12,000 ($15,265). Many collectors see fourrées as more affordable options compared to original coins, which can cost tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The Significance of the EID MAR Denarius
The EID MAR denarius was created shortly after Julius Caesar was assassinated. It was minted by Marcus Junius Brutus, one of the leaders in the conspiracy against Caesar. The design of the coin features significant symbols related to Caesar’s death, making it a historical piece.
Condition and Quality of the Coin
The fourrée sold at the auction had some condition issues, including breaks in the silver plating and a few scratches. However, it was still considered attractive and stable. The auction house described it as “Good Very Fine,” indicating that it was in relatively good condition for a coin of its type. The quality of production was noted as high, with a thick layer of silver plating.
Why Collectors Choose Fourrée Coins
Collectors often choose fourrées for several reasons:
- Affordability: They are significantly cheaper than original coins.
- Historical Value: They still have a connection to ancient history.
- Unique Design: The designs are often just as striking as their legitimate counterparts.
Other Instances of Fourrée Sales
The auction house pointed out that there have been several instances of fourrées being sold in recent years. Since 2015, they highlighted four other notable sales. According to the Classical Numismatic Group, around 16 examples of the EID MAR fourrée are known to exist, making it a collectible piece for enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The sale of the contemporary fourrée EID MAR coin at Baldwin’s auction highlights the fascinating world of coin collecting. It shows how replicas can offer a glimpse into history without the high price tag of original coins. With its link to Julius Caesar and its appealing design, the fourrée EID MAR is a great choice for collectors looking for a piece of the past.
In summary, coins like the fourrée EID MAR provide not only historical value but also accessibility for new collectors. As the interest in ancient coins continues to grow, pieces like this fourrée will likely remain in high demand, proving that you don’t always have to spend a fortune to own a piece of history.
FAQs
1. What is a fourrée coin?
A fourrée coin is a type of counterfeit coin made from a base metal (like copper) and plated with a thin layer of silver. These coins were commonly produced in ancient times as replicas of valuable coins.
2. Why is the EID MAR denarius significant?
The EID MAR denarius is significant because it commemorates the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 B.C. It was minted by Brutus, one of the conspirators, and features symbols related to this historical event.
3. What was the selling price of the fourrée EID MAR coin?
The fourrée EID MAR coin sold for £9,600, which is approximately $12,211, including a 20% buyer’s fee.
4. How does the fourrée compare to the original EID MAR coin?
While the original EID MAR coin can sell for tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, the fourrée offers a more affordable option for collectors, making it accessible without sacrificing historical significance.
5. What are the condition details of the sold coin?
The coin exhibited “Good Very Fine” condition with some breaks in the silver plating and a couple of scratches. Despite these issues, it was still considered attractive and stable.