Research and Methodology
6 articles
Rare 1792 Half Disme Reveals Early US Mint Engraving Secrets
A high-grade 1792 half disme has exposed overlooked die reworking and chemical etching at the dawn of US federal coinage, challenging long-held assumptions about early minting technology and craftsmanship
Six Forces That Shape Coin Values in the Collector Market
Coin values are driven by more than age or metal. Rarity, condition, history, demand, composition, and emotion all play a role. This guide breaks down the six factors that determine what collectors pay and why prices shift over time.
Computer coin grading brings lab-level precision to collectors' desks
New computer-powered grading tools are putting scientific coin analysis in the hands of collectors, promising faster results and a unique digital ID for every coin.
Physical Money Carries Fewer Health Risks Than Many Assume
Despite persistent concerns about germs on cash, new research finds the risk of illness from handling coins and banknotes is far lower than most people believe, with infectious transmission through money now considered extremely rare
NumisMaster Pricing Database Moves to NGC and PMG Ownership
The NumisMaster pricing database has been sold to NGC and PMG, marking a major shift for collectors who rely on its data. Active Interest Media will continue publishing Numismatic News, World Coin News, and Bank Note Reporter with ongoing pricing updates
Why Financial Stress Tests May Not Reveal True Institutional Risks
Banks routinely test capital, liquidity, and cyber resilience, but these exercises may not capture how institutions actually perform under real-world pressure, raising questions about operational readiness and decision-making in crisis scenarios