What are ancient coins called?

Ancient coinage systems were rooted in the concept of weight, rather than a fixed monetary value. Units like shekels and drachms were not arbitrary denominations, but rather expressions of the weight of the metal they contained.

This system of valuation was prevalent across various civilizations, reflecting a universal understanding of the intrinsic worth of precious metals.

The term "stater," for example, highlights this connection to weight. In ancient Greece, it was used as a generic term to signify an object that could balance scales, emphasizing its role as a standard of measurement.

This historical context underscores the importance of weight in determining the value of coins, a principle that has persisted to varying degrees throughout the evolution of currency.

In the modern era, the concept of weight-based valuation has been largely superseded by systems that assign fixed monetary values to coins and notes. However, the legacy of ancient coinage systems continues to influence our understanding of money and its role in society.