CHAPTER XII.

Ancient Memorials of Geographical Discoveries--Mistakes arising from them--Frauds to which they gave occasion--Imposture of Evemerus--Annius of Viterbo wrongfully charged with forging Inscriptions--Spurious works given to the World by him--Forged Inscriptions put on statues by ignorant modern Sculptors--Spurious Medals--Instances of them in the Cabinet of Dr. Hunter--Coins adulterated by Grecian Cities--Evelyn’s Directions for ascertaining the Genuineness of Medals--Spurious Gold Medals--Tricks of the Manufacturers of Pseudo-Antique Medals--Collectors addicted to pilfering Rarities--Medals swallowed by Vaillant--Mistakes arising from Ignorance of the Chinese Characters. 195