Attempt to Smuggle Historic Gold Coin Foiled in Samarkand

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Customs officers at Samarkand International Airport have thwarted an attempt to illegally export a historically valuable numismatic item.

During baggage inspection of a passenger bound for Moscow, officers discovered an undeclared antique gold coin. The coin dates back to the Russian Empire and was minted in 1899.

According to current regulations, the export of cultural valuables from Uzbekistan — including numismatic items — that are 50 years old or more is strictly prohibited.

Customs authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.