Archive: People and Markets

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.

Will Germany Abolish the 1 and 2 Cent Coins?

We Germans still like to pay with cash, but like in many other countries, the 1 and 2 cent coins are unpopular. The important National Cash Forum has now spoken out in favor of their de facto abolition. Read here how cash transactions would change in practice.

A comic figure on a 2-euro coin? Slovenia honours caricaturist Miki Muster. Photo: Banka Slovenije

2-Euro Ticker: New 2-Euro Coins in June 2024

Much has happened in the 2-euro coin world in the past four weeks: new motifs for 2024 were announced and four coins were issued – however, there were some problems.

Collection of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, Partial Gift of Harry S. Hutchins, Jr. DDS, Col. (Ret.) and his Family, dedicated to the individuals these Slave Hire Badges represent and their descendants.

Smithsonian Acquires Largest Collection of Charleston Slave Badges

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture recently acquired what is thought to be the largest and most complete set of Charleston Slave Badges. A new website informs about the historical significance of these badges.

Archive: Coins, Medals and more

The French Marianne I: Marianne as a Representative of the French People – Part 2

Marianne represents France as a female national allegory. Gabriele Sturm explores how she is depicted on French coins. Part 2 deals with the period of the 4th and 5th Republics, taking us to the present.
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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