Bronze Coin from Troy Becomes First Ancient Greek Artifact Found in Berlin

On the outskirts of Berlin, a 13-year-old boy stumbled upon a bronze coin, which has been recognized as the first ancient Greek artifact found in the city. This coin, minted in Troy (present-day Turkey) between 281 and 261 B.C.E., showcases Athena on one side and depicts the goddess with a spear and spindle on the other. In November 2025, the boy shared his discovery with researchers at Petri Berlin, an interactive archaeology lab. Archaeologist Jens Henker from the Berlin Heritage Authority mentioned that the coin's small diameter of 12 mm initially confused experts, but numismatic analysis confirmed its Trojan roots. The field, known for its archaeological significance as a burial site from the early Iron Age, raises questions about how the coin reached Berlin, possibly through trade or the recruitment of Germanic soldiers by Greeks. This find underscores the ancient connections between Germanic tribes and the Greek world, as noted by the Greek navigator Pytheas around 320 B.C.E.