Italy, end 19^th century

The renowned numismatist from the Waadt and honorary member of the Historical- Antiquarian Society, Charles-François Trachsel (1816-1907), sold the Museum three coins: a Scudo d’oro of the Dominion of Mesocco, a gold Guilder of 1618 and a Ducat of 1634 of the town of Chur. Only a few months after the purchase the staff of the Museum became suspicious. The colour tone was uncommon, the sound strange and the stamp cut imprecise. Had one fallen for forgeries?

The press publicised the scandal. Trachsel was charged but for the time being acquitted. His reputation, however, was ruined. Today the coins are clearly identified as forgeries.