100 Greatest Women on Coins is the tenth volume in Whitman’s acclaimed 100 Greatest series and a richly illustrated celebration of the women—real, mythical, and allegorical—who have appeared on coins from ancient times to the present. Written by award-winning numismatic author Ron Guth, the book presents each honoree through an engaging essay accompanied by full-color images of the coins on which she appears.
Selected and ranked by members of Women in Numismatics from a field of more than 700 candidates, the 100 women profiled represent a remarkable range of history and culture. They include historic figures such as Cleopatra, Martha Washington, and Queen Victoria; goddesses like Athena and Nike; enduring allegories such as Liberty and Britannia; and women from art, literature, and popular culture. Together, they tell a powerful story of women’s influence on politics, religion, science, the arts, and society itself.
The coins featured span the full spectrum of collecting—from priceless gold and silver rarities to intriguing commemoratives and everyday pieces still found in circulation. The book also offers practical guidance for collectors, showing how meaningful collections can be built at many levels. A specialist checklist and bibliography add depth and research value.
With a foreword by Charmy Harker, president of Women in Numismatics, 100 Greatest Women on Coins is both an accessible collecting guide and an inspiring tribute to the enduring presence of women in numismatic history.