Archive: People and Markets

There are many ways of transporting gold. But you should never save on security measures. Source: Jazella / Pixabay

How Not To Handle a Gold Transport

Nearly a million euros worth of gold coins were transported in a carrier van to a precious metals dealer without any security measures. No prizes for guessing whether or not they actually got there. A lawsuit in Bavaria reveals how this could happen.

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Last-minute veto: the European Commission brought a halt to the minting of coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents due to the design of the European stars on the French obverse. Photo: MDP

French Error Coin: The Monnaie de Paris Coin Mishap

The French mint Monnaie de Paris had planned to introduce a new design for coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents in 2024, but a mishap with serious consequences occurred – and while the extent of the financial loss that ensued is still unknown, it is clear that it caused great damage to the mint´s image.

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Reformation Coins and Medals: Annotated English Translation of “Ebenezer”

The International Association of Reformation Coins and Medals (IARCM) announced the publication of a significant numismatic resource: a comprehensive, annotated English translation of Christian Schlegel’s “Ebenezer,” the third section of Ernst Solomon Cyprian’s celebrated “Hilaria Evangelica,” first published in 1719.

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Top-Notch: Croatian lace and the coin issued in its honour. Image: © Branimir Kralj / Croatian Mint.

Croatia’s New “Lace-Making in Croatia” Gold Coins

Croatia has released three new gold commemorative coins to pay tribute to lace-making, a tradition recognised by UNESCO. The manufacture of lace in Pag, Hvar, and Lepoglava has been part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Contemporary allegory on the Great Elector Frederick William of Brandenburg.

The Great Elector, Taxes and the Rise of Prussia

On 1 February 2024, the Künker auction house will hold its 400th auction sale. Among the 770 lots are very rare issues from the reign of Frederick William of Brandenburg-Prussia. They bear witness to the achievements of the Great Elector, who brought prosperity to a realm devastated by the Thirty Years’ War.
Christian IV. 4 Speciedaler 1624, Kopenhagen. From Auction Künker 408 (18.-19. June 2024), No. 14. Background: Christian IV of Denmark and Norway. Bust at Rosenborg Castle / Copenhagen. Photo: UK.

400 Years Ago – The Founding of Kongsberg

On 2 May 1624, Christian IV of Denmark and Norway founded the mining town of Kongsberg. A series of coins to be offered in the upcoming Künker sale tells us of the hopes that the ruler placed in the silver from these mines.
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