The FBI is currently investigating the sale of suspected stolen treasures from the British Museum to buyers in the United States. It has been reported that the US law enforcement agency has assisted in the return of 268 items to the museum, which were sold to a collector in Washington DC.
Last year, the British Museum announced that a number of ancient gems, jewelry, and other items from its collection were missing, stolen, or damaged. One buyer from New Orleans revealed that an FBI agent contacted him regarding two pieces he had purchased on eBay. The FBI agent mentioned that they were assisting the Metropolitan Police in investigating missing or stolen items from the museum.
The British Museum has stated that out of the estimated 1,500 stolen or missing items, 626 have been recovered so far, with an additional 100 found but not yet returned. The majority of the stolen items were uncatalogued, making it a challenge to prove their origin. The museum is working on ways to verify the items, including engaging with collectors who may be willing to donate them back to the museum for assessment.
A senior curator, Peter Higgs, has been accused by the British Museum of stealing, damaging, melting down, and selling ancient artifacts. He denies the allegations, although the museum claims he pocketed around £100,000 in total. Court documents suggest that Dr. Higgs had been stealing items for at least a decade, selling unregistered items from the museum’s storerooms to approximately 45 eBay buyers.
Despite the allegations, no arrests or charges have been made in connection with the case. The museum believes that Dr. Higgs was using the eBay account “sultan1966” and posing as “Paul Higgins” during transactions. Buyers, like Tonio Birbiglia, have confirmed purchasing items from this account and have shared their interactions with the seller.
In another instance, Danish antiquities dealer Dr. Ittai Gradel discovered artifacts sold by the suspect in several cities across Europe and Asia. He bought gems in good faith, including a rare 2nd Century head of the Greek hero Hercules made from obsidian. The British Museum believes that these items are from its collection and they have been returned for further examination.
The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI assisting in tracking down items sold in the Washington DC area. The British Museum continues to work towards proving ownership of the stolen artifacts and returning them to their rightful place.
