SAFE on Collecting

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As we have so often seen collectors of antiquities are less concerned with examining their hobby in the wider context, but prefer to narrow their views to certain well-worn mantras. One of them is that anyone who criticises the current no-questions-asked status quo "must be" for banning collecting as a whole. Thus it is that the preservationist group SAFE has been accused of this. I am therefore very pleased to repeat what has just been sent as a comment to such a remark reported in an earlier post "The Problems with Illegally Transporting Ancient Coins". Perhaps that will make it less easy for the coineys and others to ignore.

Not only does SAFE not advocate banning the private collecting of ancient coins and artifacts, SAFE recognizes the ability of individuals and institutions to lawfully acquire and properly retain or transfer title of antiquities where authorized by law. However, antiquities are more than just aesthetic objects of beauty; they serve as historical evidence of the past. Because principles of supply and demand influence illegal antiquities trafficking, purchasers of antiquities should recognize that high demand can entice others to illegally excavate archaeological sites, smuggle illicit antiquities, and sell stolen objects. Such unlawful and unethical behavior permanently destroys information about the past.

While we understand that it may be convenient and tempting for those who disagree with us to label our views as extremist or absolutist, even radical, but respecting the law is hardly radical. And here are the facts: SAFE's position on collecting and related issues is unambiguous and has been published on our web site and remained unchanged from day one.

Let's just take a look at SAFE's main principles: SAFE's mission is to raise public awareness about the irreversible damage to the study of history and culture that results from looting, smuggling, and trading illicit antiquities. [...] SAFE promotes respect for the laws and treaties that protect cultural heritage and property. [...] SAFE encourages legal and ethical behavior among collectors, dealers, and museums to stop the trade in illicit antiquities. [...]
Where would any responsible collectors have any problems with that?Why in fact are not more antiquity collectors members of SAFE? What do they find so objectionable about such aims?