Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 10/13/2006

Question
I purchased an antique silver Spanish coin in Dinisli, Turkey from a shepherd in the fields.
It's a little larger than a dime. It has a shield on one side with the date 660 or 1660 SitNomendomini V Benedict VM 1660. On the other side a man's head with this:LVDXIIII GFRETINA V REX.  Its in very good shape.
What is it and is it worth anything?

Answer
Hello, William, actually I am not sure what you have here as I am not an expert on ancient or European coins.  I have 2 suggestions though.  Try going to www.ebay.com and doing a couple searches for some of the words and information on your piece.  There are tons of coins for sale on eBay and you may find that someone else is selling one like yours.  That will give you information about what your piece is and also what it is worth.  Keep in mind that condition is very important to value and that you cannot improve the condition of your piece by cleaning it or doing anything else to it -- anything you do will reduce value, perhaps substantially.

If that doesn't work, try going to www.google.com and doing a similar set of searches.  What you are looking for here is a dealer who is selling an item like yours.  Good luck, Jim Lawniczak