Gold has been a symbol of wealth and power throughout history, and some individuals have gone to great lengths to amass impressive collections of the precious metal. Here are the three most famous gold collectors of all time:
1. King Croesus of Lydia
King Croesus of Lydia is considered to be one of the world's first gold collectors. He ruled over Lydia, an ancient kingdom in what is now Turkey, from approximately 560-546 BCE. According to legend, Croesus was so wealthy that he gave his name to the phrase "rich as Croesus." He was known for his vast treasury, which included a golden lion statue, gold coins, and other treasures.
As you can see in this portrait, King Croesus must have amassed so much wealth, even his gold was boring to him.
2. Emperor Nero
Emperor Nero, who ruled over the Roman Empire from 54-68 CE, was also known for his love of gold. He was said to have covered his entire body in a thin layer of gold dust, and he reportedly owned a golden palace. Nero was notoriously extravagant and spent vast sums on luxury items, including gold coins and jewelry.
Nero is also incredibly infamous, with a bad boy reputation that is far darker than many other monarchs in history, with many even calling him the anti-Christ.
3. J. Paul Getty
J. Paul Getty was an American industrialist and philanthropist who made his fortune in the oil industry. He was also a passionate collector of art and antiquities, including gold coins and jewelry. Getty's collection was so vast that he established the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles to house it. The museum's collection includes many rare and priceless pieces of gold art and jewelry. It's a definite visit if you find yourself in the Los Angeles area.
These three individuals are among the most famous gold collectors of all time. Their collections were a symbol of their wealth and power, and they left behind a legacy of opulence and extravagance that is still remembered today.
