Archive: People and Markets
Researchers Analyse the Myth About the Massive Illicit Trade in Antiquities
An extensive new study shows that the scale of the illicit trade in antiquities is much smaller than activists claim. The study demonstrates how these false numbers came about, and how we actually should deal with the problem of the illicit trade in antiquities.
Conference on Ancient Coin Legends in Munich 2025
The conference “Ancient coin legends: composition, design, lexicography, and framing potential” will take place from 26 to 28 June 2025 in Munich, Residenz (Bavarian Academy of Science).
Archive: Coins, Medals and more

The St. Croix Collection of Baktrian Seals
Beginning with Electronic Auction 555, Classical Numismatic Group will be offering a highly important collection of Baktrian seals from the St. Croix Collection. Learn more about these fascinating objects from the Middle Bronze Age here.

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.










In God We Trust
In God we trust. Do we still trust in God? In recent years, there has been much debate on whether coins and banknotes should continue to refer to divine powers. The Austrian National Bank dedicated an exhibition to the question of why money is so closely linked to religion. Ursula Kampmann takes a look at the catalogue.
Caribbean Guilder: Joint Currency Introduced for Curaçao and Sint Maarten
The new currency replaces the Antillean Guilder, retains its value, and is pegged to the US dollar – with fresh designs inspired by the sea and local culture.