Archive: People and Markets

One of the coins seized during the police’s Operation Fantail. (Courtesy of Durham Constabulary.) Next to it, a passage from the biography of Alfred the Great written by Asser. The coin presents the prominent 9th-century ruler in a whole new light.

How Two Fraudsters Almost Changed England’s History

Two English metal detectorists attempted to sell off some illegally excavated coins. In a police operation straight out of a movie, the pair were caught and have now been sentenced. The seized coins present England’s King Alfred the Great in a totally different light.

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Dr. Daniel Harmelink, Executive Director of Concordia Historical Institute and President of the International Association of Reformation Coins and Medals, prepares the exhibit hall for the special exhibit. Photo: CHI.

Luther Medals and Reformation Coins – Exhibition in Saint Louis

A new exhibition in Saint Louis explores the topic of coins and medals of the Reformation. It presents over 125 of the most valuable and historically significant pieces from the collections of three important Michigan collectors.

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Euro Counterfeits: Fraudsters Increasingly Target Commemorative Coins

The number of counterfeit euro coins surged dramatically in 2023, with €2 coins—particularly commemorative issues—being the primary targets. Counterfeiters are employing increasingly sophisticated techniques, while investigators are analysing new varieties to track down illegal minting operations.

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Ben Wengel

NGC Promotes Ben Wengel to Senior Vice President of World Coin Grading

NGC promoted Ben Wengel to Senior Vice President of World Coin Grading. The expert for coin counterfeit detection has worked for NGC since his time as a university student.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Die Qual der Wahl: Welche Goldmünzen sind zu gut für die Schmelze? Foto: Wieschowski / „Iron melting furnace“ von „fotosuper“ von Getty Images via Canva Pro.

Gold at Record Highs: Melt Down or Preserve Historic Gold Coins?

Gold is now more expensive than ever. This trend has put many collectors and dealers in a moral dilemma: Which gold coins can be sold or melted down without hesitation, and where do the real treasures lie?

Why Are There So Many Coins Depicting Saint George?

Saint George is one of the most popular saints of the Middle Ages and the early modern period. He is venerated by both Catholic and Orthodox Christians, the Druze and even Muslims. What do we know about this saint? Did he even exist? And why are there so many coins depicting him?
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