Archive: People and Markets

Certified Collectibles Group Opens Office in Dubai

The Certified Collectibles Group has opened an office in Dubai. Collectors and dealers in the Middle East now have easier access to expert authentication, grading and encapsulation services provided by NGC, PMG, CGC and JSA.

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Last-minute veto: the European Commission brought a halt to the minting of coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents due to the design of the European stars on the French obverse. Photo: MDP

French Error Coin: The Monnaie de Paris Coin Mishap

The French mint Monnaie de Paris had planned to introduce a new design for coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents in 2024, but a mishap with serious consequences occurred – and while the extent of the financial loss that ensued is still unknown, it is clear that it caused great damage to the mint´s image.

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The Black Lizard from Brusnik Island in Ultra-High Relief

Croatia is home to a lizard species that would have impressed even Darvin himself: the autochthonous black lizard, found only on the island of Brusnik. On 14 March 2024, Croatia issued three collector coins in its honour. Now the fourth, a two-ounce silver version in ultra-high relief, has been released.

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INORCOAT: How to Make Minting More Sustainable

Are you annoyed by all the laws that make our lives more difficult but have no positive effect? Here’s an example of a law that actually makes sense: the planned ban on chromium (VI) electroplating is helping an innovative technology to make a breakthrough – and this development brings decisive advantages for the minting industry. Romain Waidelich of INORCOAT takes us behind the scenes.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Maria Theresa and Her Persecution of Jews

On 18 December 1744, Maria Theresa adopted a decree that expelled 40,000 Bohemian Jews from their homeland. A medal testifies to the fact that she had to revoke the decree due to financial and diplomatic pressure. The time of Jewish persecution was over for the time being – that is, until the genocide of the Jews in the 20th century.
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.
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