A significant change is coming to the world of numismatics. Starting in June 2025, the EU Regulation 2019/880 will ban cultural goods that have been illegally exported from entering the EU. This regulation will also introduce heightened due diligence requirements for anyone importing cultural goods from outside the EU, including coins.

At RumniCoin, we’re here to help you navigate these changes and understand what they mean for collectors, dealers, and auction houses. 

What Does the Regulation Cover?

The term ‘cultural goods’ includes a wide range of items such as fine arts, antiquities, and yes—coins. The regulation defines three main categories:

• Category A: Cultural goods illegally exported from their countries of origin. These will be prohibited from entering the EU.
• Category B: Goods over 250 years old, including those from archaeological excavations. Importers will need an official import licence and evidence of legal export from the country of origin.
• Category C: Cultural goods over 200 years old with a value exceeding €18,000. These will require an importer’s declaration and a detailed description of the item’s provenance.

Why This Matters to Coin Collectors and Dealers

The regulation places a greater emphasis on provenance—the documented history of an item’s origin and ownership. Dealers, collectors, and cultural institutions will need to provide evidence that coins have been legally exported in compliance with the laws of their country of origin.

For collectors and dealers, this could mean:

• Increased administrative requirements: Provenance documentation will now be essential for EU imports, especially for coins of significant value.
• Potential delays: If documentation is missing or incomplete, shipments could be held at customs.

Practical Tips for Coin Collectors

To stay ahead of these changes, we recommend:

1. Start researching provenance early: Don’t wait until you’re ready to sell or loan your coins. Gaps in provenance can reduce a coin’s value or complicate sales.
2. Work with trusted professionals: Engage with reputable dealers, auction houses, and legal advisors who can guide you through the regulations.
3. Focus on due diligence: Make provenance research part of your regular collecting process. Coins with clear, verified histories are likely to hold their value better in the long term.

How RumniCoin Can Help

At RumniCoin, we specialise in not only selling and auctioning coins but also educating collectors and sellers about changes in the numismatic market. With decades of experience in the coin industry, we’re here to ensure you stay informed and prepared for what’s ahead.

Have questions about how the new regulations might affect your collection or upcoming auctions? Drop us a message, or visit our website for more resources. Together, we can navigate these changes with confidence.