Archive: People and Markets
New Director of the Winterthur Coin Cabinet Appointed
Gunnar Dumke will be the new director of Winterthur Coin Cabinet. The ancient historian and archaeologist will succeed Benedikt Zäch, who is retiring after thirty years at this position.
Gold at Record High, Demand for Bullion Coins Collapses
While the gold price has reached new all-time highs several sessions in recent weeks and gained around 20 per cent in value in a short period of time in a steep upward trend, several mints are reporting a drastic decline in sales in the precious metal sector.
Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Münster, Osnabrück, Passau and the Counts of Lamberg
Münster, Osnabrück and Passau: How are these places related to the Counts of Lamberg? We use coins from Künker’s auction 424 to illustrate how noble families in the Holy Roman Empire climbed the social ladder in early modern times, and explain the reasons for and the consequences of such ascents.

The Wedding of a Century in Saxony
In the days of absolutism, a feast was not simply a gathering of friends and family. It was a political means of propagating one’s status. That is exactly what Augustus the Strong did in 1719. His son’s wedding was nothing but a welcome occasion.
International Conference on Islamic Numismatics
From 18 to 20 May 2023, the ICIN – the International Conference on Islamic Numismatics – took place in Riyadh, Saudi-Arabia. A complete success! Never before have so many specialists on Islamic numismatics gathered in one place. Ursula Kampmann was there.
Smithsonian Acquires Largest Collection of Charleston Slave Badges
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture recently acquired what is thought to be the largest and most complete set of Charleston Slave Badges. A new website informs about the historical significance of these badges.