German coin auctioneer Kuenker will be holding a spring auction of excellent numismatic rarities next month.  With the current popularity of rare coins - evidenced by the 50% rise in some rare US coins over the last year - we thought we'd highlight some of the best items on offer.

The leading lot is very rare Swedish copper coin from the mint of Avesta, created in 1788 but dated 1764, making it utterly unique.  The reverse side shows the image of a crowned double eagle holding an orb and scepter in its claws, with the obverse displaying the 'date'.  Very few are thought to exist today and as such this piece is likely to sell for €75,000.

Lot 80 is a striking tetra-drachma piece dating from around 450 BC - just prior to the reign of Alexander the Great, who is likely to cause a stir at Bonhams in April.  Weighing 17.42 grams, the coin bears the images of an eagle facing to the left and a crab, representing the constellation of Cancer.

'Worth a mint' - An incredibly rare 18th Century Swedish copper coin

With a wide planchet, the images are detailed, perfectly centered and in pristine condition.  This genuine rarity from ancient Greece would make a wonderful investment - and with an estimate of €15,000, it is not out of the reach of many serious coin collectors.

Lot 127 is another scarce relic from the ancient Greece, this time a deka-drachma coin, circa 280 BC.  The coin depicts Persephone, the ancient Queen of the Underworld, with a wreath of coin, and on the reverse a biga - a miniature chariot - controlled by Nike, the winged goddess of victory.  Crafted from gold and still lustrous, this beautiful item is expected to realise €15,000.

Also of note is Lot 26 - a great selection of 42 Celtic coins from Gaul, Belgica and Germania.  Crafted from gold, silver and bronze, the coins were used by ancient tribes, including the Carnutes, Namnetes and Ambiani.  These would make a great start to a collection and with an estimate of €10,000 would be relatively modest investment.

The auction includes many items worth tens of thousands and down to three figures, meaning there really is a coin to suit every taste.  Spanning centuries of history and hailing from across the world, Kuenker is offering a great opportunity to start and expand a coin collection, as well as own some of the most accessible historical artefacts in the collectibles market.

Their auctions take place from March 14-18th with the Swedish coin offered during the last two days.