Archive: People and Markets

The coin shows two emperor penguins standing on the ice showcased in an extraordinary inverted relief.

Pobjoy Mints the World’s First Inverted 50 Pence Coin

Pobjoy Mint celebrates World Penguin Day with the world’s first inverted 50 pence coin. It features two emperor penguins.

Read more

Stack’s Bowers Announces 2025 Professional Numismatist Program

If you have ever considered making your hobby your profession, the Stack’s Bowers Professional Numismatist Program offers an opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to be successful in this field.

Read more

Questions and Answers for Coin Collectors Regarding the Death of Pope Francis

Following five different coin series since 2002, the Vatican is set to issue new euro coins this year. When the change to a new pope on the coins will take place, and how the Sede Vacante will be commemorated numismatically, remains unclear – as does the timing for the return of the Vatican’s coin issuing office for collectors.

Read more
Unrealistic or soon to be found in European cash? This is an AI-generated image of a 2-euro commemorative coin on the subject of “defence”. Picture created with Image Generator Pro / ChatGPT

A Military Motif in Circulation – Or: How Political Should 2-Euro Coins Be?

Lithuania is planning to design a 2-euro commemorative coin for defense “against foreign armed forces”. Critics fear a numismatic mobilization – and are eagerly awaiting a possible veto from other euro countries. But have there ever been comparable cases?

Read more

Archive: Coins, Medals and more

A postcard of the 1906 Olympic Games. In front: Gilded silver medal for a winner of the 1906 Olympic Games. From Künker auction 408 (18-19 May 2024), No. 122.

The Olympic Games That Are No Longer Recognized

In 1906, the IOC and the country of Greece invited athletes from all over the world to the Olympic Games in Athens. The Games had a lasting impact on the ceremonies surrounding the sporting showdown, even though the IOC no longer recognizes these Olympics today. A winner’s medal from the Games will be auctioned by Künker on 18 June 2024.
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.
Search Search