Archive: People and Markets

Late antique bronze fragments are often interpreted as scrap or recycled material. Image: Universität Bonn.

Conference Report: Coining Values: Bronze between Money and Scrap

A conference in Bonn recently dealt with archaeological bronze finds on the outer borders of the Roman Empire. There is a lack of clarity as to how exactly they are to be understood: were the bronze pieces stashes of value or just waste metal rendered useless? Claire Franklin Werz reports.

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The design of the 2-euro coin commemorating the 35th anniversary of German reunification is causing debates. Artist of the coin's obverse: Thomas Serres (Hattingen), artist of the reverse: Luc Luycx (Belgium), photographer: Hans-Joachim Wuthenow (Berlin).

Two-Euro Ticker: New 2-Euro Coins in September 2024

The Federal Republic is once again stirring up the collector world with two surprising announcements. Additionally, San Marino, Slovakia, and Latvia are delighting collectors with new designs.

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Coins of the Islamic Lands From the Nasser D. Khalili Collection

The Khalili Collection of Islamic Art is one of the most comprehensive of its kind, and its Islamic coinage is among the finest in private hands. A catalog featuring highlights from the early period of Islamic Coinage has now been published, including many rare and unpublished specimens.

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The British Museum suffered what was probably the largest theft in its history and a scandal that shook the institution to its core. Photo: hurk / Pixabay.

Red Alert at the British Museum

Thousands of objects have disappeared from the British Museum – allegedly stolen by a senior curator. The matter was uncovered by an antiquities dealer, whose warnings fell on deaf ears. The museum’s director has stepped down, and this seems to be merely the tip of the iceberg.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Sotheby’s, The One (2nd February 2024), lot 8: The 2nd May 1840 Penny Black Cover. Estimate: $1,500,000 – $2,500,000.

The First Piece of Mail Sent Using a Stamp to Be Offered at Sotheby’s

A Penny Black affixed to a Mulready envelope is among the most valuable items in Philately ever offered at auction. The earliest posted envelope using a prepaid stamp, dating to 1840, will be sold at Sotheby’s with an estimate of $1.5–2.5 million.
Lot 1399: Clement X. Medal for the Holy Year of 1675 by Giovanni Martino Hamerani. Background: Edyttka1388 via Pixabay.

Coins and Medals of the Popes: Representatives of the Catholic Church

Since the 16th century, people throughout Europe have collected coins and medals of the popes. Papal issues were often intended to be collectibles rather than a means of payment. Künker presents a little introduction to this fascinating subject.
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