MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht 2025

Discover the MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht 2025— the world’s leading trade event for banknotes and paper money collectibles, held May 2–4 at MECC Maastricht. Learn about exhibitors, auctions, grading services, and essential visitor tips to make the most of this unparalleled numismatic experience.

• Introduction: Why the MIF Paper Money Fair Matters
• Event Overview and Schedule
• Organizers and Historical Background
• Venue Spotlight: MECC Maastricht
• Exhibitors, Scope, and Specializations
• Signature Auctions & Official Partners
• On-site Grading, Authentication & Publications
• Seminars, Workshops & Educational Opportunities
• Networking, Market Insights & Investment Trends
• Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours & Access
• Accommodation, Travel & Local Attractions
• Insider Tips for Dealers, Collectors & Investors
• Sustainability & Future Editions
• Conclusion: Your Roadmap to a Successful Fair Visit
• FAQ

Introduction: Why the MIF Paper Money Fair Matters

The MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht brings together dealers, collectors, investors, and experts from around the globe to engage exclusively with paper money and related numismatic material. As the world’s leading banknote-only fair, it offers unparalleled depth—ranging from historic rarities to cutting-edge security features on modern issues. Attendees gain direct access to over 150 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, including premier auction houses, grading services, specialized dealers, printers, and publishers.

Event Overview and Schedule

Held half-yearly, the Spring 2025 edition runs from Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the MECC Maastricht Exhibition & Congress Center in the Netherlands. The first day (May 2) is reserved exclusively for professional visitors—dealers, exhibitors, and invited guests. General admission is free on May 3 (10:00–18:00) and May 4 (10:00–17:00), offering public access to exhibits, auctions, and seminars.

• Dealer & Exhibitor Preview: May 2, 10:00–18:00 (professionals only)
• Public Days:
  • May 3, 10:00–18:00
  • May 4, 10:00–17:00

Organizers and Historical Background

Since its inception, the MIF Paper Money Fair has been organized by COINCHIQ BVBA, a Belgian company with deep roots in the collectibles market. COINCHIQ’s expertise ensures a meticulously curated event that prioritizes paper money above all else, distinguishing MIF from broader numismatic fairs. The fair’s twice-yearly rhythm (spring and autumn) has cemented its reputation as the go-to platform for banknote professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Venue Spotlight: MECC Maastricht

The MECC Maastricht provides 3,500 m² of modern exhibition space, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and seamless accessibility—by car, train, or air (near Maastricht Aachen Airport). Situated in one of Europe’s oldest cities, attendees can combine fair visits with cultural explorations of Maastricht’s medieval architecture, vibrant café culture, and riverside promenades .

Exhibitors, Scope, and Specializations

With over 150 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, the fair’s exhibitor list spans:

• Auction Houses: Stack’s & Bowers Galleries, among others.
• Grading Services: PMG (Paper Money Guaranty).
• Publishers & Reference Catalogues: The Banknote Book powered by Greysheet.
• Specialized Dealers & Printers: Historic and modern banknote issuers, counterfeit detection experts.

Attendees can browse everything from colonial-era banknotes to state-of-the-art polymer issues featuring holograms and micro-printing .

Signature Auctions & Official Partners

One of the standout attractions at the MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht 2025 is the exclusive live auction conducted by Stack’s & Bowers Galleries, one of the world’s most respected names in numismatic auctions. With a legacy dating back to the 1930s, Stack’s & Bowers has handled some of the most prestigious banknote collections ever assembled. Their participation at MIF Maastricht highlights the fair’s reputation for professional excellence and top-tier offerings.

Held during the event, this official auction is a highly anticipated feature for seasoned collectors and institutional investors alike. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to preview and bid on an exceptional range of rare and historic paper money, from early 19th-century banknotes to rare issues from colonial and wartime economies, and ultra-modern notes with limited circulation.

Key aspects of the Stack’s & Bowers auction at MIF include:

• On-site Lot Viewing: Visitors can examine high-value lots in person at the fair, which is critical for assessing color, detail, and paper quality.
• Global Bidding Access: Whether attending in person or participating online, bidders from around the world can compete on an equal footing thanks to the auction house’s advanced digital platform.
• Expert Curation: Every note in the auction is carefully selected by Stack’s & Bowers’ team of experts, ensuring a diverse and high-quality offering.
• Market Benchmarking: The results of this auction often influence market pricing for specific note types and regions, making it a valuable reference point for collectors and dealers alike.

In addition to Stack’s & Bowers, other official partners and featured institutions include:

• PMG (Paper Money Guaranty): PMG is a globally recognized third-party paper money grading service. They offer on-site authentication and grading at the fair, giving collectors the chance to certify their acquisitions or personal collections in real time.
• The Banknote Book powered by Greysheet: This renowned cataloging platform provides a comprehensive reference library for collectors. Their team is present at MIF to guide attendees through valuation resources, condition grading standards, and pricing benchmarks across thousands of world banknotes.

These official partners not only elevate the professional integrity of the MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht but also provide vital services that enhance trust, transparency, and value within the global paper money community. Whether you’re bidding on a rare lot, verifying the authenticity of a recent purchase, or researching market trends, these institutions play a central role in the MIF experience.

This collaboration of leading organizations ensures that MIF remains the most authoritative and valuable event of its kind in the world.

On-site Grading, Authentication & Publications

One of the most valuable services offered at the MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht 2025 is the on-site grading and authentication provided by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty)—a globally trusted name in the paper money industry. This feature allows collectors and dealers to have their banknotes professionally evaluated, authenticated, and graded during the event itself, adding immediate credibility and market value to their items.

PMG’s On-Site Grading Services Include:

• Authentication: PMG’s trained experts inspect each note for signs of authenticity, confirming whether it is a genuine issue or a counterfeit. Their team uses advanced tools, ultraviolet lighting, magnification, and proprietary methods to verify security features and detect any tampering or alterations.
• Condition Grading: Notes are graded on a precise 70-point scale that reflects their physical condition—such as paper quality, print clarity, margins, and folds. A higher grade typically increases a note’s value, especially in the eyes of collectors and investors.
• Encapsulation: Once graded, notes are sealed in PMG’s secure, tamper-proof holders, which display the note’s grade, certification number, and essential details. This not only protects the note but also assures buyers of its authenticity in future transactions.
• Walk-Through Submissions: For rare or high-value notes, PMG offers expedited grading with same-day or next-day turnaround options—ideal for dealers planning to resell during the event.

PMG’s presence at MIF Maastricht allows attendees to immediately certify newly acquired notes or grade items they’ve brought with them, streamlining the process that would normally require weeks of mail-in submission and wait times.

Seminars, Workshops & Educational Opportunities

The MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht 2025 is not only a marketplace for banknote collectors and dealers—it’s also a center for knowledge exchange and professional development. Through a carefully curated schedule of seminars, workshops, and educational sessions, the fair provides attendees with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of paper money collecting, investment strategies, security features, and market dynamics.

These sessions are hosted by renowned experts from across the numismatic field, including industry veterans, authors, grading specialists, security experts, and representatives from major institutions like PMG, Stack’s & Bowers Galleries, and Greysheet.

Topics Typically Covered Include:

1. Counterfeit Detection Techniques
Workshops led by experienced examiners teach attendees how to spot counterfeit banknotes using both basic and advanced tools. Participants learn to identify security features such as watermarks, micro-printing, security threads, holograms, and UV-reactive inks. Real and fake notes are compared side by side for practical insight.

2. Paper Money Grading Fundamentals
This session, often hosted in collaboration with PMG, explains how the professional grading system works. Topics include understanding the 70-point scale, recognizing the factors that influence a note’s grade, and how encapsulated notes affect marketability and value.

3. Market Trends and Valuation Analysis
Designed for both investors and high-end collectors, these seminars explore recent shifts in the global banknote market. Experts present case studies of record-breaking auctions, emerging demand in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa, and how geopolitical factors and inflation affect collectible paper money values.

4. Historical Perspectives on World Currencies
These educational talks explore the stories behind historic banknotes, such as notes issued during wartime, colonial currencies, hyperinflation issues (e.g., Zimbabwe, Yugoslavia), or rare local banknotes from pre-federation states. The sessions provide a fascinating blend of monetary history and political context.

5. Investment Strategies in Paper Money
Banknotes are increasingly seen as an alternative investment class. Experts guide attendees through the principles of building a well-rounded currency portfolio, understanding risk, timing purchases and sales, and storing collectibles properly for long-term value preservation.

6. How to Use Reference Catalogues Like The Banknote Book
Greysheet representatives and catalog authors walk visitors through the effective use of The Banknote Book. These sessions cover how to identify varieties, use catalog numbers in trading, and interpret price charts accurately.

7. Printing Techniques and Banknote Design
For those interested in the art and technology of currency production, workshops discuss the evolution of printing methods—from intaglio and lithography to offset and polymer substrate printing. Attendees can see examples of rare printing errors and learn how they influence value.

Who Should Attend?

• New Collectors: Learn the basics of identifying, valuing, and protecting your paper money.
• Seasoned Collectors & Dealers: Stay current with advanced topics, grading nuances, and market strategies.
• Investors: Gain clarity on how to integrate paper money into a diversified portfolio.
• Historians & Researchers: Discover rare insights into global monetary history.

Hands-On Learning Experience

Unlike traditional classroom settings, the MIF fair’s workshops are interactive. Attendees are encouraged to handle real examples, use detection equipment, ask questions directly to experts, and participate in live demonstrations. These hands-on experiences create a deeper, more lasting understanding of the subjects covered.

Certificates and Resources

Some sessions may offer participation certificates or free handouts, including educational booklets, guides on note preservation, or sample pages from leading catalogs. In a few cases, pre-registration is required, especially for small-group workshops that have limited seating.

In conclusion, the educational program at MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht is a major value-added component of the event. Whether you’re looking to expand your technical knowledge, understand the financial aspects of collecting, or simply appreciate the historical stories behind the world’s currencies, the fair provides unmatched access to expert insights and specialized learning opportunities.

Networking, Market Insights & Investment Trends

MIF Maastricht serves as a barometer for the global paper money market. Dealers share real-time pricing data, while investment panels discuss emerging markets—such as Southeast Asian polymer issues and central bank digital currency (CBDC) developments . The event’s informal networking lounges and VIP receptions facilitate high-level introductions and deal-making.

Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours & Access

• Registration: Online pre-registration recommended for faster entry; on-site registration desks available.
• Admission: Free to the public on May 3–4; professional badge required for May 2.
• Opening Hours:
  • May 2: 10:00–18:00 (professionals only)
  • May 3: 10:00–18:00 (public welcome)
  • May 4: 10:00–17:00 (public welcome)
• Location: MECC Maastricht, Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht, The Netherlands.

Accommodation, Travel & Local Attractions

Maastricht offers a wide range of accommodations—from boutique hotels in the historic center to international chains near the MECC. Public transit links connect the exhibition center to Maastricht Central Station and local bus routes. Nearby attractions include the Vrijthof square, Saint Servatius Bridge, and the underground WWII-era fortifications known as the Kazematten .

Insider Tips for Dealers, Collectors & Investors

• Advance Catalog Review: Download the Stack’s & Bowers preview catalogue to flag lots of interest.
• Grading Slots: Book PMG grading appointments early to guarantee your spot.
• Currency Control: Bring both euros and credit/debit cards—many dealers accept electronic payments, but smaller specialists may prefer cash.
• Networking Prep: Have business cards and digital portfolios ready; informal corridor conversations often yield the best deals.
• Cultural Etiquette: Embrace the convivial Dutch atmosphere—networking over local specialties like “roasted Limburgse Vlaai” fosters lasting connections.

Sustainability & Future Editions

COINCHIQ BVBA and MECC are committed to sustainable event practices — from eco-friendly printing to digital catalogues and waste reduction initiatives. Mark your calendar for the Autumn 2025 edition, scheduled September 26–28, and plan for Spring 2026 on May 1–3.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to a Successful Fair Visit

The MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht stands unrivaled as the definitive global meeting for banknote professionals and enthusiasts. Whether you seek rare historical notes, cutting-edge security issues, expert grading, or strategic investment insights, MIF delivers an immersive, international experience. Prepare in advance—register, review catalogues, arrange grading, and book accommodation—to maximize your time at MECC Maastricht from May 2 to 4, 2025.

FAQ

What are the exact dates and opening hours of MIF Maastricht 2025?
The fair runs May 2–4, 2025. May 2 is for professionals (10:00–18:00), while May 3 (10:00–18:00) and May 4 (10:00–17:00) are open to the public .

Where is the fair located?
At the MECC Maastricht Exhibition & Congress Center, Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht, The Netherlands .

Who organizes MIF Paper Money Fair Maastricht?
The fair is organized by COINCHIQ BVBA, a Belgian collectibles specialist with extensive experience in numismatics.

How many exhibitors participate?
Over 150 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, including auction houses, grading services, publishers, dealers, and printers .

Is admission free?
Yes—public admission is free on May 3 and 4. A professional badge is required for May 2 .

Can I have my banknotes graded on-site?
Absolutely—PMG will offer on-site grading and authentication services throughout the fair .

Are there seminars and workshops?
Yes—expert-led sessions cover counterfeit detection, printing techniques, valuation trends, and investment strategies.