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

A Commemorative Coin Celebrating the Completion of Austria’s Southern Railway
Commemorative coins were issued far less frequently in the 19th century than today. The fact that Emperor Franz Joseph dedicated a commemorative coin to the Austrian Southern Railway is therefore testimony to the outstanding importance of this line. In auction 408, Künker is offering two of only 1,644 specimens minted.

The Roman Civil War of 68/9: The Prelude to the Year of the Four Emperors
Heidelberger Münzhandlung will offer a series of coins of impeccable quality struck during the Roman Civil War at its auction on 12 and 13 November 2024. We take advantage of this opportunity to examine the historical background of these issues, going back to a time when counter-emperors did not (yet) dare to put their portrait on coins.
Provenanced Coin Finds Versus Rarities – The Importance of Coin Finds for Historical Statistics
Reporting coin finds is essential for the study of coinage. A Workshop in Jordan discussed the importance of coin finds for historical statistics and the experience of a group of Syrian archaeologists who turned to one of the most important groups of coin finders: children.
Bulgaria Will Adopt the Euro in 2026
The euro area is expanding: On June 4, 2025, the European Central Bank confirmed that Bulgaria meets the requirements for joining the eurozone. This clears the way for the introduction of the euro on January 1, 2026 – provided that preparations can be completed in time.