Numismatics in Munich
The Bavarian Numismatic Society (Bayerische Numismatische Gesellschaft e.V.) has been Munich's forum for numismatics and monetary history since 1881. It combines research, collecting and personal exchange around coins, medals and the history of money.
What is numismatics?
Numismatics is the study of coins, medals and monetary systems. It examines how coins were struck, what images and inscriptions they bear, and what they reveal about the politics, economy and culture of their time. From the early coinage of Greek antiquity through the Roman Empire to the modern age, coins tell history in miniature, and they are at the same time popular collectors' items with a devoted community of experts.
Munich as a centre of numismatics
Munich is one of the most important places for numismatics in Germany. With the Staatliche Münzsammlung, the city holds one of the world's most important public collections of coins, medals and engraved gems. In this environment, the Bavarian Numismatic Society acts as a bridge between scholarship and collectors and has kept the field alive in Munich for over 140 years.
The BNG, Munich's numismatic society
Founded in 1881, it is one of the most tradition-rich numismatic associations in the German-speaking world. It brings together collectors, researchers and interested people and cultivates the scholarly study of coins and medals. You can learn more about the society on the page About the BNG.
Lectures at the Staatliche Münzsammlung
The society regularly holds scholarly lectures at the Staatliche Münzsammlung München. Experts and collectors present their research and finds there, from ancient coinage to modern medallic art. You will find the upcoming dates under Events.
Publications and medals
The society publishes the Jahrbuch für Numismatik und Geldgeschichte , one of the respected specialist series in numismatics, and maintains its own tradition of medallic art. Every two weeks, a member also presents, in the series Collector's Pride a special piece from their collection.
Become a member
Experienced numismatists are welcome, as is anyone newly enthusiastic about coins and monetary history. As a member you can expect a lively programme of lectures, excursions and publications, as well as exchange with like-minded people. You can read how to join under Membership.
The numismatic scene in Munich
Munich is one of the leading addresses for numismatics in Germany. Alongside the Bavarian Numismatic Society and the Staatliche Münzsammlung, there is a lively scene of museums, auction houses and coin shops here. The following overview lists them neutrally and in alphabetical order.
Museums and collections
- Archäologische Staatssammlung
- Bayerisches Nationalmuseum
- Glyptothek (first numismatic objects)
- Staatliche Münzsammlung München
Auction houses
- Gerhard Hirsch Nachfolger
- Gorny & Mosch
- Heritage Auctions Deutschland
- Künker Niederlassung München
- Münzgalerie München
- Numisfitz
- Savoca Coins