History Department Acquires Hellenistic and Roman coins

An ancient coin depicting Augustus Caesar.

A coin depicting Augustus Caesar.

In spring 2025, the History Department received a collection of thirty-eight Hellenistic and Roman coins ranging from the 3rd century before common era (BCE) to the 4th century common era (CE). The coins mostly feature Roman emperors and their wives, and include coins from Roman Britain that came from the "Little Busby Hoard."

Following a presentation on the value of coins in teaching by Professor Jane Sancinito for the American Numismatic Society in New York, David Menchell, a notable coin collector and philanthropist, acquired the coins to support UMass Lowell's teaching of the ancient world. The coins, which will be stored in O'Leary Library, will be available for classes and directed studies starting in fall 2025.

Please email: Jane_Sancinito@uml.edu for more information or to handle the collection yourself.

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UMass Lowell history student Jaden Belizaire
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