AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Austin Rare Coins and Bullion (ARCI), a leading provider of investment-grade rare coins and physical precious metals, announced today that they have just sold an extremely rare version of the first gold coin ever struck in human history to an Austin collector.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160218/334711 

This remarkable gold coin dates back over 2,500 years ago to approximately 560 B.C. and has been preserved in near-mint condition.

Referred to as a “Prototype Heavy Stater,” the coin was struck by King Croesus in Lydia, or modern-day Turkey and most experts agree that it is the first version of a  gold coin ever produced. 

Ryan Denby, President of Austin Rare Coins, had this to say about the historic event, “It is truly an honor to handle such an important piece of human history that represents the dawn of money as we know it today.  Our client was thrilled to acquire the piece and he was more than happy to have paid the six-figure price tag, since we will most likely never see another one like this again.”

The design on the coin is very intricate given the crude method of manufacture.  The obverse depicts a lion and bull, reflecting strength and virility.  The reverse employs a double-incuse punch that occurred when the coin was struck so long ago.

If you would like to learn more about these remarkable coins, visit their website at www.austincoins.com or call their Austin, TX offices at 1-800-928-6468 to request more information.

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