Archive: People and Markets

Heimerle + Meule Group becomes HM Precious Metals

Following a number of major acquisitions in recent months, the Heimerle + Meule Group is now adapting its name – not least to make it easier to pronounce internationally.

New Issues From Croatia: Halubje Bell Ringers to Chase Away the Winter

Croatia has a unique carnival tradition. Masked figures chase away the winter with their large bells. These bell ringers have been on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2009. The Croatian Mint dedicates three commemorative coins to them, issued on 18 February 2025.

Single-figure plaque, mid-sixteenth to seventeenth century, cast copper alloy, Dallas Museum of Art. Photo: Daderot via Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain.

Benin Bronzes Lawsuit Against Smithsonian

Shall all Benin bronzes be repatriated? The Restitution Study Group says no. They argue for the rights of descendants of slaves trafficked by the Benin Kingdom as you can learn from this interview by Kate Fitz Gibbon.

Stack’s Bowers Announces 2025 Professional Numismatist Program

If you have ever considered making your hobby your profession, the Stack’s Bowers Professional Numismatist Program offers an opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to be successful in this field.

Archive: Coins, Medals and more

The Suffering of Leiden – A Siege During the Dutch Revolt

The third part of the Beuth Collection that Künker offers in Auction 420 contains many historically interesting emergency and siege coins. They were issued by the Dutch towns besieged by Spain during the 80 Years' War. One of these towns was Leiden, which to this day commemorates the end of the siege every year with a festival.
The wedding of Archduke Charles and Zita in 1911. On the left the wedding couple, on the right, 81-year-old Emperor Franz Joseph, whom Charles will succeed as emperor in 1916.

Charles I of Austria-Hungary: A Hapless Emperor Who Was Beatified

In the context of its Summer Auction Sales, Künker will offer the only gold coin of the last Austro-Hungarian Emperor that is available on the market. Johannes Nollé tells the story of this coin and its commissioner, who died in Madeira aged only 35.
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