The very first postage stamp was released on 6 May 1840, but we don’t seem to know exactly when the very first coin was minted. However, coins had been minted in Asia Minor (today’s Turkey) well before 600 BC.
To be considered a coin, it has to carry some sort of government guarantee and have the same content of bronze, copper, silver or gold. Antique coins usually carried the image of the ruler or some other easily recognised symbol. To qualify as a coin, a substantial quantity needs to be in circulation.
Coins and good communications were paramount for trade to develop. Previously, most trading activities had been on a barter basis, and this was not always convenient. Until 1840, written communications were sent
