Lydia Croesus 561-546 BC Gold Sixth-Stater Light Series NGC Ch AU* Lion/Bull

Gold from the King Whose Name Became a Legend of Wealth

Nearly 2,600 years ago, King Croesus of Lydia transformed commerce by introducing the world’s first pure gold and pure silver coinage. This extraordinary Gold 1/6 Stater of the Light Series belongs to that historic achievement—a beautifully preserved treasure from the beginnings of gold money.

Struck at Sardis, the royal capital of Lydia, this miniature masterpiece displays the iconic lion confronting a bull with remarkable clarity. The lion’s expressive features, textured mane, and the powerful opposing bull stand out against rich golden surfaces. Deep incuse punches on the reverse preserve the unmistakable character of this early hand-struck coinage.

NGC awarded this example Choice About Uncirculated ★, with the maximum 5/5 for Strike and 5/5 for Surface. The coveted Star recognizes exceptional eye appeal, adding another distinction to an already rare gold denomination. Its preservation and visual presence are remarkable for a coin of such antiquity.

The reported NGC population stands at just 44 certified across all grades, with only a handful graded higher in Mint State. Capstone placed a Mint State example with a collector earlier this year, and our experience sourcing this denomination underscores how difficult exceptional specimens are to replace.

* Kingdom / Ruler: Lydia / Croesus, 561–546 BC
* Mint: Sardis, western Asia Minor, present-day Turkey
* Denomination: Gold 1/6 Stater, or Hecte — Light Series
* Weight: 1.35 grams
* Grade: NGC Ch AU★
* Strike / Surface: 5/5 · 5/5
* NGC Certification: 8748323-001

A rare opportunity to own the gold of Croesus—with exceptional beauty worthy of its extraordinary history.

The exact NGC-certified coin pictured is the coin you will receive.

Capstone Acquisitions, LP is a proud member of the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG) and the prestigious International Association of Professional Numismatists (IAPN).