NGC Ancient & Medieval Coinage 2

Question 1

What term describes the technique of producing ancient coins by striking a metal blank between two engraved dies?

Accepted Answer

Hammered coinage

Answer

Hammered coinage, where a blank is struck between hand-held dies using a hammer, was the dominant method of coin production in ancient and medieval times.

Question 2

The tetradrachm was the principal large silver coin of which ancient civilization?

Accepted Answer

Ancient Greece

Answer

The tetradrachm, worth four drachms, was the primary large silver denomination in ancient Greek city-states and successor kingdoms.

Question 3

In medieval European coinage, what is a 'billon' coin?

Accepted Answer

A silver alloy with high base metal content

Answer

Billon refers to a low-grade silver alloy where base metal (usually copper) constitutes the majority of the coin's composition.

Question 4

Which Roman emperor first introduced the solidus as a standardized gold coin?

Accepted Answer

Constantine I

Answer

Constantine I introduced the solidus around 312 AD, which became the dominant gold coin of the Byzantine Empire for centuries.

Question 5

The obol was a small silver denomination in ancient Greece typically valued at what fraction of a drachm?

Accepted Answer

One-sixth

Answer

Six obols equaled one drachm in the ancient Greek monetary system, making the obol one-sixth of a drachm.

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test

NGC Ancient & Medieval Coinage 2