Yachts, luxuries, gambling casino - an ambience barely suited for a down-to-earth coin collector? On the contrary, when coming in the off season the Principality of Monaco has much to offer in regard to numismatics, like an attractive coin fair. How I got to know that? Well, I took the recent Monégasque coin fair on December 2, 2012, as an opportunity to reconsider all my prejudice and travelled to Monaco myself.

First of all, the rumor that in Monte Carlo only the super rich can buy anything and everything is not true - at least not in December. On the occasion of the coin show, exhibitors and guests of the Monaco International Coin Fair can enjoy a very reasonably priced rate which charges a price for a room in a five star hotel you would expect in a four star hotel in the major cities.When strolling through the town you will find - as in any other place in the world - expensive tourist traps as well as good restaurant with decent prices.

So much for local color, let us turn to numismatics now. Once every year, Editions Victor Gadoury organizes an international coin show that takes place high above the glamorous marina next to the famous Musée des Timbres et de Monnaies. Usually, though, not that many people queue up to visit the museum.

But, on the occasion of the coin fair, the latest special coin can be purchased at the ticket office of the Musée des Timbres et de Monnaies at issue price. It is the 2 euro commemorative coin on 500th anniversary of foundation of Monaco's sovereignty and the 10 euro coin with the image of Honoré II. They were sold out already before noon.That made it easier to get access to the exhibition rooms which are quite worth visiting!

To read the complete article, see:Numismatics in the Principality of Monaco(www.coinsweekly.com/en/News/4?&id=1716)