7 Wonders of the Ancient World Rounds
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
APMEX is proud to present the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World series. This exciting series will include seven releases featuring limited mintages of 7,777 silver and 77 gold rounds, respectively. Each release of silver and gold rounds will feature a beautiful design of a mystical wonder of the ancient world and an effigy of a historical figure relevant to the subject, along with a denomination applicable to the period.
First Release: Colossus of Rhodes
The first release in this thrilling series features the Colossus of Rhodes. The silver content and beautiful design make these rounds the perfect gift for any collector or investor. These beautiful rounds include a unique method of stamping called edge marking. This method is not often used on bullion, adding to the collectibility of these exquisite pieces. The weight and purity can be found on the edge of the round, unlike their usual location on the obverse or reverse.
In addition to the stunning silver rounds, this release is also available in gold. The low mintages and .999 fine gold content, along with the premium edge marking, made these rounds ideal for collectors and investors alike. The gold rounds also include a numbered certificate of authenticity and beautiful custom packaging.
Second Release: Hanging Gardens of Babylon
TThe thrilling sequel in this captivating series showcases the awe-inspiring Hanging Gardens of Babylon. These remarkable gardens were portrayed as a remarkable feat of engineering, consisting of a magnificent arrangement of tiered gardens. Notably, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon remain the sole wonder among the Seven Wonders that lacks a definitively confirmed location. Limited mintages of gold and silver rounds featuring the renowned Hanging Gardens and King Hammurabi, the legendary Babylonian ruler, were available with this second release in limited mintages.
Third Release: Lighthouse at Alexandria
The captivating third installment of this series showcases the magnificent Lighthouse at Alexandria. Constructed in Ancient Egypt during the period spanning 284 to 246 BC, this towering structure is believed to have reached a remarkable height of at least 330 feet, earning its reputation as one of the world's tallest man-made edifices for centuries. However, the Lighthouse suffered damage caused by earthquakes between 956 and 1323 AD. In this release, limited mintage silver and gold rounds featuring an edgemark denoting the round's weight and purity were available, adorned with depictions of the Lighthouse and an effigy of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the pharaoh who ruled over Egypt during its construction.
Fourth Release: Temple of Artemis
The fourth release celebrates the Temple of Artemis, renowned for its historical significance and renowned artworks. This Greek temple was devoted to an ancient local incarnation of the goddess Artemis, symbolizing the wilderness, hunting, and childbirth. Within its walls, one could behold a splendid array of iconic sculptures, paintings, and resplendent columns adorned with silver and gold gilding. Originally constructed by King Croesus of Lydia around 550 BCE, the temple holds a legendary tale wherein it was believed to have burned down on the day of Alexander the Great's birth. According to folklore, it was whispered that the goddess Artemis, engrossed with the momentous birth of Alexander, could not intervene to save her sacred sanctuary.
Fifth Release: The Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza, the grandest among the Egyptian pyramids and the most ancient and well-preserved of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stands as an awe-inspiring testament to human ingenuity. Constructed approximately 4,500 years ago under the reign of Pharaoh Khufu from the Fourth Dynasty, this colossal structure was conceived as a magnificent tomb. The pharaohs of Egypt held the belief that they would transcend into divinity in the afterlife, and thus the pyramids were erected as opulent resting places, filled with treasures and provisions that would accompany them into eternity.
The methods employed in the construction of this architectural marvel remain shrouded in ambiguity, as numerous theories have been proposed by experts, yet a consensus has eluded them. This enigmatic aspect only enhances the mystique surrounding the Great Pyramid, evoking a sense of wonder and intrigue for all who contemplate its existence.
Sixth Release: Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, also known as the Tomb of Mausolus, stands as a resplendent sepulcher constructed between 353 and 350 BC. This magnificent tomb was erected in honor of Mausolus, a satrap who governed a province within the Achaemenid Empire, and his sister-wife Artemisia II of Caria. Rising to a remarkable height of 148 feet, the elevated structure captivates with its grandeur.
Adorning each side of the mausoleum are intricately crafted sculptural reliefs, meticulously designed by four esteemed Greek artists: Leochares, Bryaxis, Scopas of Paros, and Timotheus. These embellishments infuse the monument with a captivating artistic splendor. Furthermore, the mausoleum houses a staggering collection of 400 sculptures, further attesting to its opulence.
In commemoration of this architectural masterpiece, a limited number of 7,777 silver rounds and 77 gold rounds have been made available. The obverse of these rounds beautifully depicts the Mausoleum itself, showcasing its breathtaking magnificence. On the reverse, one can admire the bust of Mausolus alongside the denomination. Notably, each round is meticulously edgemarked, denoting its weight and purity, adding to its authenticity and value.
Seventh Release: Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Rising majestically to a height of 41 feet, the awe-inspiring Statue of Zeus at Olympia was meticulously crafted between 466 and 435 BC, destined to grace the esteemed Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Greece. Composed of a masterful blend of gold, bronze, ivory, and ebony, this monumental statue portrays the mighty figure of Zeus, the supreme deity of Mount Olympus, in a seated position, clutching a small bust and a scepter.
As the final wonder in this extraordinary series, a strictly limited quantity of 7,777 silver rounds and 77 gold rounds will be made available worldwide. These precious rounds serve as a homage to the Statue of Zeus, capturing its magnificence on the obverse. Collectors and enthusiasts alike will have the rare opportunity to own a piece of this extraordinary wonder, securing a cherished memento of its unparalleled grandeur.
For collectors interested in ancient history that would like to have real currency from these civilizations, APMEX has you covered. In addition to modern commemorative coins of these societies, we also offer ancient coins from places like Ancient Egypt, Greece, and more.
