Archive: People and Markets
A Year of Gold Bars in US Supermarkets: Could the Costco Model Work in Europe?
Since autumn 2023, Americans have been able to invest in gold at the wholesale chain “Costco.” Those who bought then have enjoyed a handsome return – but whether gold will ever be sold at Aldi or Lidl in Europe remains uncertain.
From a Collector’s Market to an Investor’s Market: Reasons, Consequences, Opportunities, Part 1
Complaining is of no use: change is coming, or may already be here. The question is how to deal with it. In order to develop smart strategies, one must be aware of what is actually happening and why. Ursula Kampmann summarizes the most important changes in the coin world in a loose series. Today: the shift from a collector to an investor market.
Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Sisi and Franz: Commemorating the Dream Wedding that Was Actually a Nightmare
As part of the phaleristic auction 415 on 28 October 2024, Künker will be auctioning the set of gold medals that Emperor Franz Joseph presented to his father-in-law, Duke Maximilian Joseph in Bavaria. It is the numismatic souvenir of a wedding that turned out to be a nightmare for his daughter – young Elisabeth, who is better known as Sissi or Sisi today.

Maria Theresa and Her Persecution of Jews
On 18 December 1744, Maria Theresa adopted a decree that expelled 40,000 Bohemian Jews from their homeland. A medal testifies to the fact that she had to revoke the decree due to financial and diplomatic pressure. The time of Jewish persecution was over for the time being – that is, until the genocide of the Jews in the 20th century.











A New Era for the Caribbean: The Caribbean Guilder is Coming
In March 2025, a new currency will be introduced – the Caribbean Guilder. Collectors can look forward to intricately designed coins and banknotes that highlight the cultural and maritime identity of the islands of Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
New Coin From Slovakia: 80th Anniversary of the Vrba-Wetzler Report
In the summer of 1944, the world became aware of the Holocaust thanks to two young Slovaks: Rudolf Vrba and Alfréd Wetzler. The National Bank of Slovakia honors them with €10 collector coin, produced by the Kremnica Mint. The coin represents many things – bravery, moral courage, responsibility and the power of public opinion.