http://www.searchreslt.com/silver-coin/
From Mesopotamia to Mexico - A Brief History of Silver Coins by Florence Federini
Silver has been used for many years as a fungible good of exchange and decoration starting with ancient civilizations. While, silver was used much earlier for jewelry, Mesopotamian traders collected silver in exchange for their goods as early as 700 B.C. Silver coins and the history associated with them have played a key economic role in the development and growth of civilizations ever since its use in Babylon and Syria.
Silver's value is derived from its scarcity. While, it is not as rare as other precious metals such as gold or platinum, its rarity in comparison to other metals like copper and iron ore make silver bullion an ideal metal for use in currency. While it will tarnish over time, its durability as a metal makes it ideal as a lasting currency that can be exchanged from person to person over many years.
There are many ancient civilizations known for their silver coin production. Chinese coins are regarded for their age and are known to be some of the oldest silver coins available. They often depict pictures of various emperors and can be identified according to dynasty. Greek silver coins were known to be hand milled and had many intricate designs on them. These coins were only produced into the first century A.D. The Romans began production of silver coins around 200 B.C. and they modeled their methods after the Greek coin makers. An interesting fact about Roman coins is they could never depict the face of someone who was still alive. Islamic silver coins were produced after the 7th century A.D., this included the Ottoman Empire. Many rulers had several coins produced during their reign so; a great variety of styles can be seen in these coins.
The discovery of the New World in 1492 was boon for Europe in regards to silver production. Major deposits of silver were found in Mexico, Bolivia, and Peru; and are still mined today. Mining and production of silver was so prodigious at this time that it is estimated that 25% of the world's silver supply available today was mine in this period of 1492 to 1770. This is an impressive amount of mining considering the technology available at this time coupled with the fact that mainly deposits close to the surface were harvested.
Silver coins helped America develop its economy. The United States in 1792 fixed the price of silver in relation to gold and made it part of the nation's currency. This fixed price economic model meant that the value of silver could easily be calculated and there was no need to worry about a varying value for silver as in today's market. The American Eagle Silver Dollar was minted from this time period up until is discontinuation in 1965.
Today silver is mined as a byproduct of other metals. Mines extract silver from gold, zinc, lead, and copper mines. Recycling programs also exist to replenish silver sources. In 1986 the U.S. Mint began producing American Eagle Silver Dollars again for coin collectors. Silver is still widely regarded as a precious metal and is considered a great investment commodity by many.
About the Author
For more examples of silver bullion coins like the Chinese Panda please visit the provided links.
Angus and Julia Stone – Silver Coin
|
|
Fast Weigh MS-500-BLK Digital Pocket Scale, 500 by 0.1 G $4.50 Introducing the M-500 from Fast Weigh Scales! This hip little scale is one of the hottest and most economical scales on the market today! The removable cover keeps the scale protected when not in use and also doubles as an expansion tray. Just replace the plastic cover when your done using it, and you can safely toss the scale in your handbag or pocket with no worries. Features: * A stylish yet ec… |
|
|
American Weigh 600 Gram Jewelry Scale $5.99 Product FeaturesTenth of a gram accuracy (0.1g)600 gram Maximum CapacityFlip-Open Protective CoverIncludes two AAA batteriesPlatform Size: 2.5 x 3.0″ The American Weigh 600 is a compact pocket scale for those who are seeking on go portability and durability. The backlit LCD display helps make the numbers viewable and easy to read. The intuitive protective cover provides protection for the scale. S… |
|
|
Forever Lazy ~ Adult Footed Pajamas ~ One Piece Sleepwear! Size Adult Large/X Large $0.29 Forever Lazy ~ Adult Footed Pajamas ~ One Piece Sleepwear! Size Adult Large/X Large… |
|
|
The Rothschilds: A Musical (1970 Original Broadway Cast) $4.59 All products are BRAND NEW and factory sealed. Fast shipping and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed…. |
|
|
Bach 2000: The Complete Bach Edition – Sampler $5.99 J.S. Bach’s fascination with numbers has been taken over by the music world at large as–in alignment with the new millennium–it prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the composer’s death, which occurred in July 1750. Though his passing marked the sunset of one of the most glorious eras in music, awareness of the value of Bach’s enormous legacy has never been more widespread than in o… |
|
|
Wadada Leo Smith: Kabell Years, 1971-1979 $34.98 All products are BRAND NEW and factory sealed. Fast shipping and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed…. |
|
|
Fantasia (Deluxe Collector’s Edition) $22.50 … |
|
|
SPACE JAM, WITH COLLECTORS COIN, 1996 $34.94 Sealed with large collector coin with Mike’s picture w/disney characters…. |
|
|
U S Silver Commemorative Coins $29.95 … |
|
|
Streamlight 73001 Nano Light Miniature Keychain LED Flashlight, Black $3.79 FEATURES Easily attaches to just about anything with pocket clip or key ring: 1 Up to 8 hours run time: 2 Machined aircraft grade aluminum with anodized finish: 3 Uses 4 alkaline button cell batteries included: 4 White LED bulb with 10 lumens: 5 Weatherproof: 6 Includes a non-rotating snap hook for easy one handed operation when atta… |