AUREA initiative
Treasures of the Past
Old auction catalogues as time capsules. The AUREA initiative gives historical catalogues a second life and preserves numismatic memory.
Picture holding a catalogue that remembers a time when the world turned more slowly. Every page carries the scent of history, every lot tells a story. Our "Treasures of the Past" initiative is devoted to old auction catalogues that would otherwise end up in landfill. We give them a second chance — and with them, a piece of history worth bringing back to light.
Why "Treasures of the Past"?
Old auction catalogues are like time capsules. They hold hundreds of lots — coins, medals and other numismatic treasures — that featured in auctions years, sometimes decades, ago. According to a study by the National Library of the Czech Republic, thousands of books and printed materials end up in landfill each year, even though they still hold value. We decided to change that. We offer these catalogues at nominal prices so that enthusiasts, collectors and researchers can acquire them.
What you will find in the catalogues
Historical lots – Coins and medals from various periods that chart the history of numismatics.
Auction results – A record of the prices these pieces realised in the past.
Photographs and descriptions – Detailed images and descriptions that take you back to the time these pieces were first sold at auction.
Why preserve old catalogues?
According to UNESCO research, the protection of cultural heritage is essential for understanding our past and building a better future. Old auction catalogues are part of that heritage. We preserve them not only to keep them out of landfill, but so they can inform and educate future generations.
Stories waiting to be found
Every catalogue has its story. Some come from major auctions, others are tied to figures of the numismatic world. All share one thing — they are waiting for you to open them and find what they hold.
How to take part
Visit our "Treasures of the Past" section in the Aurea.cz shop and browse the catalogues we have prepared. Each catalogue is a small window onto the past — and you can be the one to give it a new life.
What if the catalogue is no longer available?
Whenever we cannot offer the catalogues as physical copies, you will always find them in the AUREA Auction Catalogue Archive that we maintain.
Links to relevant sources:
National Library of the Czech Republic – https://www.nkp.cz
(Information on the fate of old prints and books.)UNESCO – Protection of cultural heritage – https://www.unesco.org
(Information on the importance of protecting cultural heritage.)