The Hellenistic World: Using Coins as Sources

Guides to the Coinage of the Ancient World

by Peter Thonemann

Coinage is one of our key sources for the rich and fascinating history of the Hellenistic world (323–31 BC). This book provides students of the period with an up-to-date introduction to Hellenistic gold, silver and bronze coins in their cultural and economic contexts. It also offers new perspectives on four major themes in contemporary Hellenistic history: globalisation, identity, political economy and ideology. With more than 250 illustrations, and written in a lucid and accessible style, this book sheds new light on the diverse and multicultural societies of the Hellenistic world, from Alexander to Augustus. The author assumes no prior knowledge of Hellenistic history, and all Greek and Latin texts are translated throughout.

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2016

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good introduction to coins of the ancient Mediterranean world and a good addition to the growing field of literature which uses coins as historical and archaeological sources

[Joseph Calev · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating study of Hellenistic coins, from before Alexander the Great to the Roman occupation. This is a great primer for understanding history through numismatics, and for understanding the motivations behind producing certain coinage.