Ancient coins are small, round pieces of metal that were used as money in various civilizations thousands of years ago. They often feature images of rulers, gods, or symbols that represent the culture and economy of the time. Examples include coins from the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, and Mesopotamia. These coins provide valuable insights into history, trade, and art. Collectors and historians study ancient coins to learn about the societies that produced them, including their economic systems and social structures. Some famous ancient coins include the Athenian tetradrachm and the denarius from Rome.