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Teen Finds Ancient Greek Coin in Berlin Field
1 May
Summary
- A 13-year-old student discovered a rare Greek coin in Germany.
- The bronze coin dates from 281-261 BC and was minted in ancient Troy.
- This is the first Greek antiquity find within Berlin city limits.
A remarkable discovery was made recently in Berlin when a 13-year-old student unearthed an ancient Greek coin. This bronze artifact, minted in the ancient city of Troy between 281 and 261 BC, features the goddess Athena. It is considered the first archaeological find from Greek antiquity within the city limits of Berlin-Spandau.
Examined by PETRI Berlin, the coin's context was initially uncertain. However, ceramic fragments, human remains, and a Bronze Age button indicated the site's use as a burial ground. Later finds confirmed ongoing use into the Roman Imperial and Slavic periods.
The coin's presence in North-Central Europe is a significant rarity, prompting investigation into ancient trade links between the Baltic Sea region and the Mediterranean. Experts hypothesize its symbolic value may have outweighed economic function.
The coin, measuring 12 millimeters and weighing 7 grams, is now on public display at PETRI Berlin as of April 15, 2026.
