Mystery of Germany's festive gold bar donations Published duration 11 December 2018

image copyright Reuters image caption Three local associations in the same northern German town have received anonymous donations of gold bars

A number of local associations in a small town in northern Germany have received anonymous donations in gold bars, reports say.

A hospice and an animal welfare association in Cuxhaven received two gold bars on Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December, and the next day.

A community self-help group also received gold bars through the post.

The bars, which together weigh 500g (17oz), are thought to be worth about €17,000 (£15,000, $19,000).

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The bars came with the same cover letter on red paper, saying: "This is a free donation to [name of the association] to support this important task in Cuxhaven. Have fun with it and Happy Christmas!"

Local associations or individuals received anonymous cash donations of up to €10,000, and in total more than €250,000 were donated, reports say.

Saint Nicholas was a 4th-Century bishop who liked to give gifts secretly, leading to him becoming the model for Father Christmas.

Related Topics Germany

Christmas