From Hand to Hand The Story of an Invention that Changed the World

09.11.2026

19.30-20.30

As part of the temporary exhibition Messages on Metal. A Timeless Dialogue with Cyprus, presented by the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia and Alpha Bank, the lecture ‘From Hand to Hand: The Story of an Invention that Changed the World’ explores the fascinating history of coinage.

How and why was coinage invented in the 7th century BC? Which peoples were the first to use coins, and how did they spread throughout the Mediterranean and beyond?

The lecture traces the evolution of coinage, from the earliest issues of Asia Minor to the Byzantine Empire, highlighting its role in economic transactions, political power, trade and communication. Through iconic coins from different periods, it will explore major innovations, the powerful coinages that dominated the ancient world and the reasons behind their enduring success.

Beyond its economic significance, however, the coin will also be explored as a vehicle for ideas, symbols and messages. Ultimately, what is a coin? A means of payment, an instrument of power or a reflection of the societies that created it?

A journey through the history of an invention that, passing from hand to hand, changed the world.

Speakers: Dr Dimitra I. Tsangari, Head of Cultural Collections and Archives, Curator of the Alpha Bank Numismatic Collection; Eleni Zapiti and Lefki Michaelidou, Curators of the Gold Collection of the A. G. Leventis Gallery.

Admission: Free

Language: Greek

Reservations required: T.: +357 22661475 / Email: education@leventismuseum.org.cy

Please note that the lecture will begin exactly on time. It is recommended to arrive at the venue 10 minutes before the scheduled start.