U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently seized nearly 100 rare artifacts in the city of Philadelphia. The shipment includes 36 copper-alloy short swords and 50 arrowheads dating back to the Bronze Age, more than 4,000 years ago.
The artifacts were shipped from the United Arab Emirates in October and were declared under the label “metal decorations.” According to the shipment route, the items were on their way to Jacksonville, Florida, when officials discovered them at a transit location rarely seen in antiquity smuggling routes.
Originating from Illegally Excavated Ancient Graves
Robert Wittman, a former FBI special agent with 20 years of experience investigating antiquities, noted that this collection was likely purchased from the black market by a private collector. Because the artifacts are at least 4,000 years old, they hold significant appeal for international antique hunters.
Following an appraisal, authorities determined that these artifacts originated from Iran. Experts believe many of the items were taken from illegally excavated ancient burial sites, where weapons and important belongings were traditionally buried with the deceased according to ancient customs.
The illegal excavation and trafficking of antiquities cause serious damage to the cultural heritage of their countries of origin, resulting in the loss of irreplaceable historical data.
Although their estimated black-market value ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, these artifacts have no legal standing due to their illicit origin. Authorities are currently continuing to process the case to ensure that cultural heritage is protected in accordance with regulations.
