King Croesus

King Croesus was by far the greatest king of the Lydian Empire. He would also be the last king - ruling from 561 to 547 B.C. He is renowned in history for his incredible wealth and was the first King to issue coins made of pure silver and pure gold instead of a mixture of the two metals. By developing an innovative refining process, the Lydians create a standardized purity for general circulation.

Croesus’ first gold coins in 550 BC were true works of art – as he depicted the lion and the bull on the world’s very first gold coin, THE STATER. Not only did he produce beautiful coins, but he also created a lavish palace in his capital of Sardis. Regarded as the richest man who ever lived by the Lydian people… they started using the expression “rich as Croesus.”

The fall of Croesus and the Lydian Empire happened in 547 B.C. as the Persians conquered all of the Ionian Greeks of Asia Minor and assimilated them into the Persian Empire.

If you have any questions regarding what ancient coin to add or start your collection with, please call an Ancient Coin Advisor at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion… we are the industry leaders in the ancient coin marketplace and would be more than happy to help you find what rare or ancient coin you are looking for!