Valid point and one I was going to type previously----but I can't help but feel conned a bit when I view coins or artefacts only to later learn they are almost all 'replicas' ... Glad you decided to stay with us!!!
@Ardatirion . As I mentioned before, most employees are not aware of this type of security measure. Also the quality of these replicas is outstanding, the material too, is pure gold or silver. I purchased some Gold exact replicas from a museum, I will try to make some photos later.
I mean, I do know a thing or two about coins. If they have any replicas, they'll be clearly noted, as with the above example.
There were a few that were clearly marked as replicas(i.e. the cast Marius) but I don't believe there were any others that were replicas and not clearly marked. Most of the display cases had motion sensors installed and there were some very high value items like the brasher doubloon that were displayed in a slab. I feel like if they were going to have replicas out, it would be the extremely high value things like that.
The practice of replicas is well known in Great Britain and US. However, 99.9 % of Museums in EU, display only the genuine items. Because coins are small and with very high value, they are the prime target of thefts. Electroplating gave the museums an extraordinary tool to protect their collections. These replicas are made of pure gold or silver. Because genuine coin is used as mirror, the quality is great to fool most of the people. Now here it is a gold replica of Caesar. I am attached to this coin because was stolen once from a museum " can't share the name" Sure was inside glass display with full security measures, camera, sensors, you name it. It was found again because all the black market dealer wouldn't touch it. After 20 years in service, the museum sold it within a "lot" of gold replicas. (The thief's already knew this one was fake ) These type of auctions are not for general public. Here it is. Pure 24 karat Gold 6.7 grams melt value around $ 300 Julius Caesar. Gold Aureus , 46 BC. Rome. A. Hirtius, praetor. C CAESAR COS TER, veiled of of Vesta or Pietas head right. Reverse: A HIRTIVS PR, lituus, jug and axe. Crawford 466/1;HCRI 56;Sydenham 1018;Calic 37. Last post for today .
I have one 'Electroplate Replica' from the British Museum, circa 1860---the new style Attica type---which I have posted three or four times before...
I'd rather see a beat up real coin than a perfect replica . It's nice with any coin from any age to wonder who might of held it or what it financed . Can't do that with a replica .
My not just make copy's of all the coins and sale the real things to collectors where they will be appreciated.
My not just make copy's of all the coins and sale the real things to collectors where they will be appreciated.
Sounds (and looks) like you had a good visit. It is good to get out and see some really neat stuff up close. I'll have to put the museum on my wish list.