Coins of Zakynthos

The Coins of Zakynthos were first introduced in Grimm Season 1, Episode 13: Three Coins in a Fuchsbau.

These coins are priceless. Many people died trying to get their hands on them. 8th century, B.C., gold was being mined from the island of Zakynthos in ancient Greece. Certain coins were stamped with a swastika, signifying good fortune, on one side and the head of a Nemean lion on the other, representing wealth and power. (The Nemean lion was slain by Heracles and its fur was impervious to attacks because it was made of gold. Its claws were sharper than mortals' swords and could cut through armor.)

Those who held the coins possessed a charismatic influence over other men. When the Greek empire fell, the coins fell into the Romans' hands. The coins had a devastating effect on whoever possessed them. The coins then made their way to China during the Han dynasty and were then lost for several centuries. Until they resurfaced during the Third Reich. After the defeat of the Nazis the coins disappeared again. Nobody but the Grimms knew where they were.

It seems that Grimms are unaffected by these coins and have taken great care into protecting these coins. They were successful until 18 years ago when the Grimm protecting the coins was found and murdered. Then, the coins were put into circulation again.

Once you acquire these coins, you will do whatever you can to hold onto them.

The Grimm who died to protect these coins happened to be Nick's mother.