Coins are a decorative art form. The purpose is of course functional, and propaganda. I consider stamps to be the same kind of thing. It might be a commercial art form, but the craft of designing, and creating is art, and employs many talented artisans, in ancient and modern times.

One thing the ancients had on their side was time. I do not think they were as concerned with deadlines or mass production as we are today.

Coins have great beauty and asthetic appeal. If this is not art, what is? The story or propaganda concerning them is what gives them meaning. They represent the person, or government that issues them.

One can not help but think of all the people who once used them and traded with them. To bad they can not talk. They tell us much about the past.