Overview
- Customs said the stop occurred on December 27 at Cologne/Bonn Airport as the passenger attempted to exit via the lane for duty‑free goods.
- The four gold coins were found concealed in a small key pouch inside the traveler’s handbag.
- The coins were valued at roughly €17,000, according to the Cologne customs office.
- Non‑EU arrivals face a €430 duty‑free allowance, and undeclared higher‑value goods can trigger tax investigations.
- The man was allowed to retain the coins after paying the assessed duties, and officials say the ongoing case could result in a fine, noting the suspect’s age made the case unusual.