Archive: People and Markets

Ruthenium on Euro Commemorative Coins: Mints Turn to Innovative Finishes – with the Blessing of Central Banks

Coins with exotic precious metal coatings have long been viewed with skepticism, but Malta has now set a new trend with a galvanised commemorative coin. Other eurozone countries are also embracing innovative finishing techniques to capture contemporary tastes.

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The MDC Awards 2023

After a five-year break, the Mint Directors Conference took place in Ottawa, Canada, from October 15 to 18. One of the most eagerly awaited events was the announcement of the winners of the prestigious MDC Awards. You can now find them here.

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Colouring on 2-euro coins – still an absolute exception today. Collage: Canva.

Are Things Becoming Too Colourful? France and Portugal Issue 2-Euro Colour Coins

After six years, two Eurozone countries make use of the opportunity to design commemorative 2-euro coins with a special effect. Until now, official 2-euro coins with colour have been an absolute exception – for they are not at all liked to be seen in Brussels.

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In Marseille the dealers’ association IAPN hold their 71st General Assembly in June 2023. Photo: Tiia Monto via Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

IAPN General Assembly in Marseille 2023

At their 71st General Assembly in Marseille, the International Association of Professional Numismatists elected new members, increased the Executive Committee, and awarded the prestigious IAPN Book Prize.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

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.
The contents of a piggy bank from the Deutsche Mark era – a case for the Bundesbank exchange counter? Photo: Wieschowski.

Marks and Pfennigs in Your Inheritance: What Should Heirs Do with Old DM Coins?

When dealing with inheritances, it’s common for heirs to come across coins from the Deutsche Mark era –often, these Pfennigs and Marks can feel overwhelming. However, heading straight to the Bundesbank, where nearly all DM coins can be exchanged indefinitely, isn’t always the best option.
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