SB 88A Justin I, AE follis

Among the treasured relics of the ancient world, the SB 88A Justin I, AE follis (Turkey), denomination Follis, stands as a compelling numismatic specimen. The imagery and inscriptions on ancient coins provided citizens with information about their rulers and the values of their civilization — a function that modern currency rarely fulfills so directly. Struck during the ancient period, this coin represents one of humanity's earliest forms of monetary exchange. Ancient coinage emerged in the kingdoms of Lydia and the city-states of Greece around the seventh century BCE, spreading through conquest and trade to encompass the Persian Empire, Hellenistic kingdoms, Republican and Imperial Rome, and numerous regional civilizations. The artisans who crafted these dies were among the most skilled of their age, producing miniature masterpieces of portraiture and symbolic imagery that remain astonishing to modern eyes. Cast in bronze, representing the everyday currency of its era, this coin provides a direct link to the daily economic life of its period. Bronze and its alloys — mixtures of copper with tin or zinc — have served as coinage metals since antiquity, providing affordable, durable tokens suitable for small everyday transactions that gold and silver pieces were too valuable to fulfill. Numismatic interest in this coin is supported by its combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and the inherent appeal of its material composition. Collectors are advised to consult reputable dealer networks and major auction records when assessing fair market value. For acquisition and sale, the services of established numismatic dealers or major auction houses provide the best combination of price discovery, authentication, and buyer/seller protection.