Archive: People and Markets

Zimbabwe’s New Currency: Is the ZiG Doomed to Fail From the Start?

Zimbabwe has introduced a new currency that is supposed to win the trust of Zimbabweans as it is backed by gold. Michael Alexander explains the background and presents the new banknotes.

What Makes the TICC in Tokyo Different From Other Coin Shows

The TICC is the most important coin show held in Japan – a MUST for Japanese collectors. Those who travel there will find an active, young market. And much of what we are used to in Europe does not apply there.

Top-Notch: Croatian lace and the coin issued in its honour. Image: © Branimir Kralj / Croatian Mint.

Croatia’s New “Lace-Making in Croatia” Gold Coins

Croatia has released three new gold commemorative coins to pay tribute to lace-making, a tradition recognised by UNESCO. The manufacture of lace in Pag, Hvar, and Lepoglava has been part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009.

Largest Hoard of Ancient Gold Coins Discovered in Luxembourg

At the end of 2019, two amateur archaeologists in Luxembourg made an impressive discovery that has now been made public: 141 exceptionally well-preserved solidi from the last third of the 4th century. It is the largest hoard of ancient gold coins ever discovered in the Grand Duchy.

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?
Contemporary allegory on the Great Elector Frederick William of Brandenburg.

The Great Elector, Taxes and the Rise of Prussia

On 1 February 2024, the Künker auction house will hold its 400th auction sale. Among the 770 lots are very rare issues from the reign of Frederick William of Brandenburg-Prussia. They bear witness to the achievements of the Great Elector, who brought prosperity to a realm devastated by the Thirty Years’ War.
Search Search