Discover gold's global impact on culture, art and science. Facts, myths and magic.

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Gold

Goldipedia Homepage > World Gold Council, all about gold

From the ancient Egyptians to James Bond, from Homer's 'Odyssey' to the gold rush, gold has played a fascinating part.

Craftsmen have been inspired by gold's beauty for thousands of years, and have regularly used it to create symbols of wealth and power.

Gold is an incredibly versatile and useful material in science and technology from cancer treatment to space travel.

The first pure gold coins were struck by Croesus of Lydia between 560 and 547 BC. Gold coins have continued as legal tender since that time.

With such a long and fascinating history and so many unique properties, it's no surprise there are many startling facts about gold.

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Aztecs, Incas, the gold of South America
Chimu mask

The use of gold in the moon landings

lunar module
The 1933 Double Eagle, sold for $7.59 million
Double eagle coin
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