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.
Benin Bronzes Lawsuit Against Smithsonian
Shall all Benin bronzes be repatriated? The Restitution Study Group says no. They argue for the rights of descendants of slaves trafficked by the Benin Kingdom as you can learn from this interview by Kate Fitz Gibbon.
Archive: Coins, Medals and more

The Eve of the Battle of Philippi: An Aureus Featuring the Portrait of Brutus
On 9 December 2024, Numismatica Genevensis will be auctioning an extremely rare aureus featuring a portrait of Brutus. The coin, estimated at CHF 750,000, was minted to pay the soldiers who fought for Brutus in the final battle at Philippi.

400 Years Ago – The Founding of Kongsberg
On 2 May 1624, Christian IV of Denmark and Norway founded the mining town of Kongsberg. A series of coins to be offered in the upcoming Künker sale tells us of the hopes that the ruler placed in the silver from these mines.











Striking Designs – Exhibition at the Dumbarton Oaks
A new special exhibition is on view at the Dumbarton Oaks Museum in Washington D.C. „Striking Designs: Communicating Through Coins” explores what the images on coins can tell us about the late Roman and Byzantine empire.
Call for Papers: Conference on Ancient Coin Legends in June 2025
From 26th to 28th June 2025 the conference “Ancient coin legends: composition, design, lexicography, and framing potential” will be held in Munich. Abstracts can be sent in until October 31st 2024.