America had four main types... until one cost them so much money to mint that they quit. What am I?

First four: stink, mire in piles. Three more: period, longest of whiles. Captives encaged; Proud ruins, defiled

I guard the sands where secrets sleep, With lion’s strength and wisdom deep. I ask no words, yet riddles cling, To ancient stone and silent wing. Part beast, part thought, part mythic link. Name me now, what do you think?

Single, I hold drinks and food, among others. Double me to dance with your great-great-great-great-great grandmothers.

Noble sacrifice Wreathed in flames And in the ashes An egg remains