Explore how ancient coin inscriptions reveal stories of power, identity and culture across the ages.

For thousands of years, coins have carried words and symbols that tell stories about the people who made and used them. In this session we’ll open the University’s coin cabinets to share some of the collection’s treasures, from the earliest coins struck more than 2,500 years ago to pieces from many different cultures and times. You’ll see how languages on coins reveal power, pride, and identity, and how even the smallest inscription can unlock big histories. Whether it’s Greek, Latin, or other scripts, the words stamped in metal still speak today. Come along and discover how money really does talk – and what it has to say about our past.

Event led by Prof Sam Gartland, and hosted by the Leeds City of Languages Festival 2026.

Description supplied by the event organiser.