Taking antiques (100+ years old, non-ivory) out of Turkey
Türkiye prohibits the export of antiquities and cultural property under Law 2863 — including old coins, carpets over 100 years, and archaeological fragments.
Details
Law 2863 on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Property makes it an offence to export cultural property from Türkiye, including antiquities, old coins, icons, and even stones or fragments collected from archaeological sites. Penalties reach 12 years' imprisonment. Antique-style purchases (carpets, copperware) should be accompanied by a museum-certified export clearance or dated invoice showing the item is not protected cultural property — reputable dealers arrange this certification.
Quantity limits
Zero for protected cultural property; certified non-antique items freely exportable
Documentation required
- Museum certification or dealer invoice showing non-antique status
The other direction
Bringing antiques (100+ years old, non-ivory) into Turkey(restricted)