The United States returned illegally exported ancient coins to Cyprus

Cyprus returned ancient coins that were exported to the United States more than a decade ago. Back in 2009, the find was found in a cargo that was sent from London. According to data provided by the us customs service, the coins were purchased by a collector from Missouri, who was supposed to receive all purchased copies by Express parcel. The authorities asked the collector to provide documents authorizing the import of these coins from Cyprus. As soon as it became clear that the numismatist did not have the relevant papers, the coins were transferred to the appropriate service for subsequent return.

The United States has signed an agreement with 20 countries (including Cyprus) that restricts certain archaeological and ethnological sites in order to prevent looting of these States. Among the coins exported from Cyprus were copies of the times of Ptolemy, Augustus, Tiberius, and several Chinese rarities. The return was delayed due to a lawsuit with the collector that lasted several years.