Antichità Lot of 6 Fourrée coins 5th century BC - 13 century AD (Senza Prezzo di Riserva)

Selected Ancient Fourrée Coin Lot: 6 Coins – Ancient to Medieval (5th Century BC – 13th Century AD)

This group features six ancient fourrée coins—plated forgeries made in antiquity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the economic and cultural realities of the ancient world. Spanning nearly 2,000 years, from Phoenician antiquity to the Crusader era, this lot is a rare find for those seeking numismatic anomalies with historical intrigue.

Contents of the Lot:
Phoenicia – Sidon, Ba'alšillem II (401–366 BC)
Fourrée Silver 1/16 Shekel
An unusual plated piece from a highly sought-after Phoenician series.

Phoenicia – Arados (circa 380–351/0 BC)
Fourrée Silver 1/16 Shekel
Rare forgeries from this mint are infrequently encountered, adding to the historical intrigue.

Ancient Greek – Macedonian Kingdom, Alexander III "the Great" (336–323 BC)
Fourrée AR Drachm
A plated imitation of one of the most iconic ancient coins. Alexander’s coinage was widely copied, making contemporary forgeries like this both educational and scarce.

Roman Empire – Trajan (AD 98–117)
Fourrée Denarius
These silver-plated forgeries of Trajan’s coins circulated alongside genuine issues. A remarkable example from Rome’s peak imperial period.

Medieval Italy – King Henry III or V (1039–1125 AD)
Fourrée Denaro
These silver-plated medieval coins reflect the continuation of the practice into the Middle Ages. Rarely seen in this form.

Crusader States – Principality of Antioch, Bohemond III (AD 1163–1201)
Fourrée Denier
A plated Crusader coin is a true rarity, with high appeal to collectors of Crusader or medieval numismatics.

Features:
Time Span: 5th century BC – 13th century AD

Material: Silver-plated base metal (bronze or copper core)

Themes: Counterfeit detection, ancient economies, forgery in antiquity

Rarity: Fourrées are significantly less common than authentic strikes—particularly for Crusader and Phoenician types

Provenance:
From a private European collection assembled in the late 20th century. These coins were carefully preserved for their numismatic and historical interest.

Why Collect Fourrées?
Fourrées are not only rare and underappreciated, but they also add depth and complexity to any ancient coin collection. They highlight the human element—deception, ingenuity, and survival—in monetary history. Whether viewed as ancient forgeries or adaptive currency, they are prized by scholars and collectors alike.

Please refer to detailed photos for condition. Many coins appear even better in hand, with plating and core exposure offering unique visual appeal.

A Unique Opportunity
This lot offers six plated relics spanning major civilizations and eras, providing both a numismatic curiosity and historical value. A fascinating and educational set that enriches any collection.