This bill would update U.S. rules for importing numismatic material to make lawful collecting and trade clearer and simpler, while still guarding against items from illegal digs. It sets specific types of proof that customs can accept and limits extra paperwork unless there’s evidence of fraud. The stated aim is to “facilitate the lawful trade and collecting of numismatic materials.”

Key points

• Who is affected: People who import or collect numismatic material, and customs officers who review imports.
• What changes: For numismatic material, customs may accept evidence showing the item was lawfully acquired, is a known type, and is not known to come directly from illicit excavations in a partner country. Importers can submit sworn statements covering these points, including that the item type appears in published numismatic references and was lawfully exported. Customs may not demand more documentation beyond what the law lists unless they have probable cause the evidence is false.
• Why it matters: Clear evidence rules can reduce delays and uncertainty for lawful numismatic imports while helping block items tied to illegal excavations.