Forges in todays world are powered with propane. The main reason for this is that the coal fired forges produce too much smoke for use in urban or sub-urban era's. On top of this they are easily made, maintained, and fueled. | 
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Coal fired forges are less popular today, mainly because of the price of coal vs. LPG or liquid propane gas. The coal fired forges are for blacksmithing fanatics who really want to experience things "The old way". These forges generally require a hand crank blower or a set of bellows to operate properly whereas the propane forge generally has one built into it's design. | 
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