The first metal coins are believed to have been used as currency by the Lydians, a people of Asia Minor, during the 7th century B.C.E., and it is likely that folks began collecting coins not long after that. The name that we give to the collection of coins today is numismatics, a word that also encompasses the collection of paper money and of medals. The noun numismatics and the adjective numismatic came to English (via French numismatique) from Latin and Greek nomisma, meaning "coin." Nomisma in turn derives from the Greek verb nomizein ("to use") and ultimately from the noun nomos ("custom" or "law"). From these roots we also get numismatist, referring to a person who collects coins, medals, or paper money.
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebTheir product catalog also includes numismatic, collectible, and premium coins. Laxmi Corp, The Salt Lake Tribune, 12 July 2022 It’s also one of the top 10 most expensive coins in numismatic history. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Aug. 2021 In its history, the rarity has graced just four private numismatic collections, including those of Charles A. Watters, Virgil M. Brand, the Childs family and the Pogue family. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Aug. 2021 With the exception of rare numismatic items, the ownership of monetary gold was subject to a fine over $200,000 in today's money.Star Tribune, 24 Dec. 2020 Based solely on the current price of gold per gram, the coins are worth around $52,600 today—but given their historical significance and numismatic merit, the trove’s actual value is likely significantly higher. Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 Aug. 2020 Users can browse collections of blue-and-white ceramics, numismatic specimens (also known as coins), and presidential portraits, among others. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 Mar. 2020 The Brasher Doubloon, the first gold coin struck in the United States, is being offered privately at a $15 million asking price, according to numismatic adviser Jeff Sherid.BostonGlobe.com, 3 June 2020 But the value of collectible coins, sometimes called numismatic coins, depends on rarity and beauty. Hanna Kozlowska, Quartz, 18 Nov. 2019 See More
Word History
Etymology
French numismatique, from Latin nomismat-, nomisma coin, from Greek, current coin, from nomizein to use, from nomos custom, law — more at nimble