Legal Case Summary

United States v. Ancient Coin Collectors Guild


Date Argued: Thu Mar 22 2018
Case Number: 17-1625
Docket Number: 6343684
Judges:Robert B. King, G. Steven Agee, Stephanie D. Thacker
Duration: 42 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: United States v. Ancient Coin Collectors Guild, Docket No. 6343684** **Court:** United States District Court **Docket Number:** 6343684 **Date:** [Insert relevant dates] **Parties:** - **Plaintiff:** United States of America - **Defendant:** Ancient Coin Collectors Guild **Background:** The case of United States v. Ancient Coin Collectors Guild involves issues related to the illicit trade and possession of ancient artifacts and coins. The United States Government, through various archaeological and cultural heritage statutes, sought to enforce laws aimed at preventing the trafficking of historical artifacts that may have been unlawfully excavated or exported from their countries of origin. **Factual Allegations:** The United States alleged that the Ancient Coin Collectors Guild, an organization representing collectors and dealers of ancient coins, was involved in promoting the trade of coins that were illegally imported, hence violating federal laws designed to protect cultural heritage. The government claimed these activities contributed to the ongoing looting of archaeological sites and the illegal exportation of cultural property. **Legal Issues:** Key legal issues in this case included: 1. The interpretation of federal statutes regarding the importation of cultural property. 2. The extent of liability for organizations promoting or facilitating the trade of ancient artifacts. 3. The application of international treaties aimed at protecting cultural heritage. **Arguments:** - The United States argued that the Guild's activities were detrimental to the preservation of cultural heritage and sought remedies that included injunctions against the further trade of the disputed coins. - The Ancient Coin Collectors Guild contended that they were operating within legal parameters and that many coins traded were not subject to the claimed restrictions. They also argued for the rights of collectors operating within the legal frameworks afforded to them. **Court's Findings:** The court examined the evidence of the alleged illegal activity and the application of relevant laws. It analyzed the balance between the rights of collectors and the protection of cultural heritage, along with the responsibility of organizations engaged in promoting commerce of such items. **Conclusion:** The resolution of this case underscored the tensions between cultural preservation and collector interests. The court's ruling provided guidance on how similar organizations should navigate legal obligations concerning ancient artifacts, reinforcing the importance of compliance with both national and international regulations. **Outcome:** [Insert final decision or settlement information if available.] **Significance:** This case is significant in shaping policies related to the acquisition and trade of ancient artifacts in the United States and highlights the ongoing challenges in protecting cultural heritage in a globalized world.

United States v. Ancient Coin Collectors Guild


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